Sandy Baltimore Penalty Saves Chelsea Following Twente Threaten Champions League Shock

The Champions League remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They desire it deeply. However, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they aim to dominate.

In spite of their control in possession, the home side that struck first, via skipper 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, but for the team that has repeatedly won it all, the yearning for the final piece is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats to Barcelona, featuring a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, with only 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 replaced by expanded stage similar to the male competition.

These two teams faced off during the previous group stage, as Chelsea handing out a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they would appear somewhat different one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that growth showed, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or engage individually, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

The home side gather around their captain after her opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the best opportunity of the half. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, but instead of shooting she passed to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

There was energy but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from close range in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a recent addition scored a goal, turning in a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the provider having been in an illegal position.

The manager looked to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two starters were replaced, including one with a concussion, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead right around the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a driven pass found a player in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were limited and as each passed without scoring, it seemed that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it was Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel and she shifted to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting performances this term but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a penalty, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A winner eluded them, but they have opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and former champions.