🔗 Share this article

Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive prize. They desire it intensely. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the ideal start to a tournament they aim to conquer.

Despite their dominance in possession, the home side that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, yet for the squad which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is powerful. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the closest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat the previous campaign, have stung each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach flexed her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four starters from the last game in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they began their Champions League campaign in a new era – the group stage replaced by league phase akin to the male competition.

The two sides met during the previous group stage, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

At their stadium that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who sent wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel following the opening goal.

Yet, the hosts created the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart one-two with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed to their top scorer who was denied by the defense.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the changes having an impact, especially in the final third. A forward should have done better with a chance but fired over from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Action

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, turning in a low cross, yet the assistant was raised, the passer having been offside.

The manager looked to her bench to try to change the game soon after. Two players made way, including one with a concussion, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the hour mark. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and with every passed without a goal, it seemed like the home side might pay the price. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and fired into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting performances this term yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have earned one sooner from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory eluded them, yet they possess chances to bounce back in future matches before facing old rivals and former champions.