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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' elusive prize. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start to a tournament they hope to conquer.

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

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, yet for the team which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats to Barcelona, featuring a heavy combined defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The manager showcased the team's strength for the trip to Enschede, with only four starters from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage replaced by expanded stage similar to the male competition.

These two teams faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Home Side's Growth Evident

On home turf that maturity showed, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who launched wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players gather around their captain after her opening goal.

However, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she passed to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of cohesion, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. 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.

After the Break Action

After halftime, a recent addition scored a goal, turning in a low cross, but the flag went up, the passer deemed offside.

The manager turned to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two players made way, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created another golden chance to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without scoring, it seemed that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel and she shifted to her strong foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this term but they have secured results and away from home they extended that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a penalty, though they could have earned one sooner from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

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