Baltimore Spot-Kick Spares The Blues Following Twente Threaten WCL Shock

The Champions League remains the Blues' elusive prize. They crave it intensely. However, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente far from the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to dominate.

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

Home Success Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, yet for the team that has consistently won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three consecutive semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The coach flexed her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, with only four starters from the last game on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase replaced by league phase akin to the male competition.

These two teams met in last season's group stage, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've matured a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match the Blues' pressure or engage one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, frustrating the Blues who launched wave after wave at the home team.

The home side celebrate their captain following the opening goal.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of aiming for goal she passed to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the rotations having an impact, especially in attack. A forward should have done better from a cutback but fired over from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

Second Half Drama

After halftime, a new signing found the net, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the provider having been offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes in an attempt to change the game soon after. Two players made way, including one with a concussion, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.

Missed Chances

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the hour mark. After regaining the ball in attack, a low cross found a player in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were limited and with every passed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this season but they have earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a penalty, though they could have had one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess opportunities to bounce back in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.