Baltimore Penalty Saves Chelsea Following Dutch Side Nearly Cause WCL Upset

Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's elusive prize. They crave it intensely. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning to a tournament they hope to conquer.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance But European Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, yet for the squad that has consistently triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three consecutive semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The coach showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four players from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase now a expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that growth was evident, the hosts avoided to match Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, frustrating the visitors who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

However, Twente had the best opportunity of the half. A player had room after a neat exchange with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she squared for the team's top scorer who was denied by the defense.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the changes taking a toll, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but fired over from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, turning in a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider having been in an illegal position.

The manager turned to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players made way, one due to a concussion, for new energy and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead right around the hour mark. Having won possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each passed without a goal, it felt that Twente would be punished. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted to her strong foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this season but they have secured results and away from home they continued that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.