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Europe's premier competition continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They desire it deeply. Yet, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they aim to dominate.

In spite of their control of the ball, the home side who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, but for the team which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the closest they came. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the last game in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage now a expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

The two sides met in last season's opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've matured somewhat and can fix what we did wrong,” she added.

Home Side's Growth Evident

On home turf that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or engage individually, they proved an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who launched wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel following the first strike.

Yet, Twente had the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart one-two with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she squared to their leading striker who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored with a chance but fired over from close range in their best effort, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Action

After halftime, a new signing scored a goal, turning in a low cross, yet the assistant went up, the passer having been in an illegal position.

The manager turned to her bench to try to change the game soon after. Two players were replaced, one due to a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created a clear opportunity to take the lead just before the hour mark. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross found a player in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each passed without a goal, it seemed that Twente might pay the price. However, it was Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They have not produced thrilling performances this season but they have secured results and away from home they extended that pattern. A challenge on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, though they could have had one sooner when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and title winners.