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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive prize. They crave it intensely. However, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the ideal start to a tournament they hope to dominate.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the team that has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, featuring a heavy combined defeat the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The manager showcased her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, with only four starters from the last game in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they started their European journey in a new era – the initial phase now a league phase similar to the male competition.

The two sides faced off during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall loss on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've matured a bit and can fix what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel after her first strike.

However, Twente had the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space after a neat one-two with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she passed for the team's leading striker who was denied by the defense.

There was energy but a lack of cohesion, the rotations taking a toll, particularly in attack. A forward should have done better with a chance but fired over from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Action

In the second half, a recent addition scored a goal, slotting home a low cross, yet the assistant was raised, the provider having been offside.

The coach looked to the substitutes in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters made way, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were limited and as each missed without scoring, it felt that Twente might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and fired into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling performances this season yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A challenge on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, though they could have had one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A winner escaped them, yet they possess opportunities to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.