Inter Miami were held to a 2-2 draw by Philadelphia Union in a dramatic Major League Soccer clash at Subaru Park. For Lionel Messi, however, the night carried a significance far beyond the result: the Argentine superstar scored his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge Messi.

The hosts made the brighter start, with Indiana Vassilev opening the scoring in the 11th minute. Inter Miami responded 10 minutes later when Daniel Pinter finished a move involving Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

Then came the defining moment. In the 26th minute, Messi produced a trademark left-footed finish into the far corner to put Miami 2-1 ahead. The goal was his first since his father, who was also his long-time representative, died on August 8 at the age of 68.

There was little celebration from the 39-year-old. After briefly embracing his team-mates, Messi raised his hands and pointed towards the sky in an emotional tribute to his father.