🔗 Share this article

Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' hard-to-catch prize. They crave it intensely. However, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they aim to conquer.

In spite of their control in possession, it was who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the team which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, featuring an 8-2 aggregate defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they started their European journey in a new era – the initial phase replaced by expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

These two teams met during the previous opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

At their stadium that growth was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or battle individually, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

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

Yet, the hosts created the best opportunity of the half. A player found space following a smart exchange with a teammate, but instead of shooting she squared to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the changes having an impact, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from the spot in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, slotting home a low cross, yet the assistant went up, the passer having been offside.

The manager looked to the substitutes in an attempt to change the game soon after. Two starters made way, one due to a concussion, for fresh legs and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead right around the hour mark. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and as each missed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. Yet, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel and she shifted to her strong foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting performances this season but they have earned points and away from home they extended that pattern. A challenge on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have earned one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A winner eluded them, yet they possess chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.