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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive trophy. They crave it deeply. However, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to conquer.

In spite of their dominance in possession, it was who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, yet for the team that has consistently won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate defeat the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

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

These two teams met during the previous group stage, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they'd look somewhat different after a year. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or engage individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who sent repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

However, the hosts created the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat exchange with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she squared to their top scorer who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of cohesion, the changes having an impact, especially in the final third. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Action

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, turning in a low cross, yet the assistant went up, the passer deemed in an illegal position.

The manager looked to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two starters were replaced, one due to a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created another golden chance to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross found a player in the box yet a challenge prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were limited and as each missed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it would be Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea kept pushing. They have not delivered exciting performances this season yet they've earned points and away from home they continued that pattern. A foul on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have had one sooner from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess chances to bounce back in future matches ahead of meeting old rivals and title winners.