Messi scores first goal since father's death as Inter Miami draw 2-2 with Philadelphia Union

Lionel Messi scored his first goal since his father's death as Inter Miami drew 2-2 with the Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park in an MLS match on Wednesday. His father Jorge died aged 68 on August 8 in Rosario, Argentina.

Messi paid an emotional tribute to his father last week, saying he did not know how to continue without him. The match was played on a hot, humid night in Pennsylvania.

In the 26th minute, Messi shook off his marker and sent a left-footed shot into the net to give Miami a 2-1 first-half lead. His teammates ran to embrace him after the strike.

Earlier in the game Messi provided the assist for Miami's opening goal. The contribution underpinned his involvement across the attacking play despite the conditions.

The draw ended a three-game losing streak for defending MLS Cup champions Miami. Messi also captained Argentina to this year's World Cup final, where they lost to Spain.

The goal was Messi's 13th of the season, leaving him one behind Dallas striker Petar Musa in the race for the MLS Golden Boot, which he won last season.