Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it deeply. Yet, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente far from the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to dominate.
Despite their control in possession, the home side that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark to level the scores.
Home Success But European Disappointment
Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the squad which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have hurt on every occasion.
Squad Rotation Proves Costly
The coach flexed the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four starters from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the group stage replaced by league phase similar to the male competition.
The two sides met in last season's opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall 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 our past mistakes,” she said.
Home Side's Growth Evident
On home turf that growth showed, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or engage one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.
Twente's players celebrate their captain following the opening goal.
However, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of shooting she squared for the team's leading striker who was denied by the defense.
There was energy but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, especially in the final third. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.
After the Break Drama
After halftime, a recent addition found the net, turning in a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the passer deemed in an illegal position.
The coach turned to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two players made way, including one with a concussion, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.
Missed Chances
The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the hour mark. After regaining the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player at the far post but a tackle denied the chance.
Their opportunities were limited and as each missed without a goal, it felt that Twente would be punished. However, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and struck into the net.
Late Equalizer
The Blues continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this season yet they've earned points and away from home they continued that trend. A challenge on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have earned one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to tie the game.
A winner eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and former champions.
