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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it deeply. Yet, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to dominate.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, but for the squad which has repeatedly won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, featuring a heavy combined defeat the previous campaign, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed her squad's depth for the trip to the Netherlands, with only four starters from the previous match on the pitch, yet it turned out expensive as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase now a expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off during the previous group stage, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate their captain following the opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the top chance of the half. A player found space after a neat one-two with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she squared for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of cohesion, the changes taking a toll, particularly in the final third. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Action

After halftime, a new signing scored a goal, slotting home a low cross, yet the assistant went up, the passer having been in an illegal position.

The manager looked to her bench in an attempt to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, one due to a concussion, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a driven pass found a player in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were limited and as each passed without scoring, it seemed like the home side would be punished. Yet, it was Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this term but they have earned points and away from home they extended that pattern. A foul on a player gave the visitors a penalty, although they might have earned one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A winner escaped them, but they have opportunities to recover against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and former champions.