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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to dominate.

Despite their control of the ball, the home side who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, but for the squad which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is intense. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, including a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The coach flexed the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four starters from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved costly as they began their Champions League campaign under a new format – the group stage replaced by league phase akin to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off in last season's opening round, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. The captain stated they'd look somewhat different one year on. “I hope we've matured a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

At their stadium that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or battle individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who sent wave after wave at the home team.

The home side gather around their captain after her first strike.

However, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of shooting she squared to their top scorer who was denied by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing cohesion, the changes taking a toll, especially in attack. A forward should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider having been offside.

The coach looked to her bench in an attempt to change the game soon after. Two players made way, one due to a head injury, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead right around the 60-minute point. Having won possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every missed without scoring, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling displays this term yet they've secured results and away from home they extended that trend. A challenge on a player earned the away side a penalty, though they could have earned one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A winner eluded them, but they have chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and title winners.