🔗 Share this article

The Champions League continues to be the Blues' hard-to-catch prize. They desire it deeply. Yet, their title hopes took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to dominate.

Despite their control of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they came. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The coach flexed the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, with only four starters from the last game on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey in a new era – the initial phase replaced by league phase akin to the male competition.

The two sides met during the previous group stage, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss on the Dutch champions. The captain remarked they'd look somewhat different after a year. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

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

Yet, Twente had the best opportunity of the half. A player had room following a smart exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she squared to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the changes having an impact, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored from a cutback but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

After halftime, a new signing found the net, turning in a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the provider having been in an illegal position.

The manager turned to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters made way, including one with a concussion, for new energy and a former Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were limited and with every passed without scoring, it felt like the home side might pay the price. However, it was Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling performances this season but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that pattern. A challenge on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, though they could have had one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess opportunities to bounce back in future matches before facing old rivals and former champions.