Europe's premier competition continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch trophy. They crave it intensely. Yet, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to conquer.
In spite of their control of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark for the equaliser.
Every trophy is precious, but for the squad that has repeatedly won it all, the yearning for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including a heavy combined loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.
The manager flexed her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four players from the previous match on the pitch, yet it turned out expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the group stage now a league phase similar to the men's tournament.
The two sides faced off during the previous opening round, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can fix what we did wrong,” she added.
At their stadium that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the visitors who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.
The home side gather around their captain following the first strike.
Yet, Twente had the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart one-two with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she passed to their leading striker who was denied by the defense.
There was energy yet missing cohesion, the rotations taking a toll, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored with a chance but fired over from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper made key saves.
After halftime, a new signing found the net, slotting home a low cross, but the flag was raised, the passer having been offside.
The coach looked to the substitutes in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters made way, one due to a head injury, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.
Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead right around the hour mark. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.
Their opportunities were scarce and with every missed without scoring, it felt like the home side might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and struck past the goalkeeper.
Chelsea kept pushing. They have not delivered exciting performances this season yet they've earned points and away from home they extended that pattern. A challenge on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.
A victory eluded them, yet they possess chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.
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