Sandy Baltimore Spot-Kick Saves The Blues After Twente Nearly Cause Champions League Upset

Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' elusive trophy. They desire it deeply. Yet, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente far from the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to dominate.

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

Domestic Dominance But European Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, yet for the team which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the last game in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the group stage replaced by league phase similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off in last season's opening round, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they'd look somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've grown a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or engage individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel following the first strike.

However, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat one-two with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed for the team's top scorer who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of cohesion, the changes having an impact, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but blasted high from close range in a key moment, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a low cross, but the flag went up, the provider deemed offside.

The manager looked to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters were replaced, one due to a concussion, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created another golden chance to go ahead just before the hour mark. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass reached a teammate at the far post yet a challenge prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every passed without a goal, it felt like the home side would be punished. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling performances this term but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have earned one sooner from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A winner escaped them, but they have chances to bounce back in future matches before facing old rivals and former champions.