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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They crave it deeply. Yet, their title hopes suffered on Dutch soil, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning to a tournament they hope to dominate.

In spite of their dominance in possession, the home side who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Every trophy is precious, but for the team that has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the final piece is intense. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four players from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase now a expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off in last season's group stage, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. The captain remarked they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

On home turf that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, frustrating the visitors who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel following the opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat exchange with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she squared to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

There was energy but a lack of cohesion, the rotations taking a toll, particularly in the final third. A forward should have done better from a cutback but fired over from close range in a key moment, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

After halftime, a new signing found the net, turning in a low cross, but the flag was raised, the passer having been in an illegal position.

The manager looked to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players made way, including one with a concussion, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. Having won possession in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every passed without scoring, it felt like the home side would be punished. However, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling displays this season but they have secured results and away from home they continued that pattern. A foul on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A winner eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.