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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's elusive trophy. They crave it deeply. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente not at all the ideal start in a competition they hope to conquer.

Despite their dominance of the ball, it was who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the team that has consistently triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have stung each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The coach showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the group stage now a expanded stage similar to the male competition.

These two teams met during the previous opening round, as Chelsea handing out a heavy overall loss on the Dutch champions. The captain stated they'd look somewhat different one year on. “I hope we've grown a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they proved an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who sent wave after wave at the home team.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her first strike.

Yet, the hosts created the best opportunity of the half. Leonie Vliek found space after a neat exchange with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she passed for the team's top scorer but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, especially in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, turning in a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the passer deemed in an illegal position.

The coach turned to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players were replaced, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in attack, a driven pass found a player in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were limited and as each passed without a goal, it seemed that Twente might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling displays this season yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they continued that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a spot-kick, though they could have had one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A victory eluded them, but they have chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.