🔗 Share this article

Europe's premier competition continues to be Chelsea's elusive trophy. They desire it intensely. Yet, their title hopes took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the ideal start in a competition they hope to conquer.

In spite of their dominance in possession, the home side that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Each piece of silverware is precious, yet for the squad which has repeatedly won it all, the yearning for the final piece is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The coach showcased the team's strength for the trip to Enschede, featuring just four starters from the last game in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

These two teams met in last season's opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that growth was evident, the hosts avoided to match the Blues' pressure or engage one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the visitors who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

Twente's players celebrate their captain following the first strike.

Yet, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. A player found space following a smart one-two with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she squared for the team's top scorer who was denied by the defense.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. A forward should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

In the second half, 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 coach looked to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters were replaced, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in attack, a driven pass reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without scoring, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back reached the captain who moved to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea kept pushing. They have not delivered exciting performances this term yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A winner escaped them, yet they possess opportunities to recover against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and title winners.