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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' hard-to-catch prize. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a 1-1 draw against Twente not at all the ideal start in a competition they aim to dominate.

Despite their dominance of the ball, the home side who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The coach flexed her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four starters from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the initial phase now a league phase similar to the male competition.

The two sides faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall loss on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to match the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who sent repeated attacks toward the goal.

The home side gather around their captain following the first strike.

Yet, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. A player had room following a smart exchange with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she squared for the team's top scorer who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the changes taking a toll, particularly in attack. A forward should have done better with a chance but fired over from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

After halftime, a recent addition scored a goal, turning in a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The coach looked to the substitutes in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters were replaced, including one with a head injury, for new energy and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and as each missed without a goal, it seemed like the home side might pay the price. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back reached the captain who moved to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this term yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A foul on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have earned one sooner from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory eluded them, but they have chances to recover against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and title winners.