Lionel Messi scored his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge, earlier this month, but Inter Miami were held to a 2-2 draw by the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday (Thursday, Bangladesh time).

Messi's father and longtime representative died aged 68 in Rosario, Argentina, on August 8.

In the 26th minute at Subaru Park, Messi shook off his marker and sent a left-footed shot into the net before being embraced by his teammates.

The 39-year-old paid an emotional tribute to Jorge Messi last week, describing him as a father, friend and representative, saying he did not know how to continue without him.

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

Philadelphia's Neil Pierre equalized in the 58th minute to make it 2-2, with neither side able to find a winner.

The match ended with both teams reduced to 10 men after Philadelphia's Cavan Sullivan and Miami's Yannick Bright were sent off.

Miami, who entered the match looking to halt a three-game losing streak, sit second in the MLS Eastern Conference with 39 points from 20 matches, seven behind leaders Nashville. Philadelphia were seeking a fifth consecutive victory.

Messi also captained Argentina to this year's World Cup final, where they lost to Spain.