Lionel Messi scores and assists as Inter Miami draws with Union

Lionel Messi marked his return to scoring by netting a goal and providing an assist in Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday. The Argentine superstar's contribution helped his team avoid a fourth consecutive defeat across all competitions.

Messi's first goal since his father's passing came in the 26th minute, a signature curling shot into the corner of the net. Earlier, his pass was headed in by Luis Suárez in the 21st minute, giving Inter Miami the lead. Messi now boasts 13 goals and nine assists in 17 MLS matches this season.

The Union had initially taken the lead through Indiana Vassilev in the 11th minute. After Messi's heroics, the Union equalized in the 58th minute with a header from 18-year-old defender Neil Pierre. A potential go-ahead goal for the Union was disallowed after a review for offside.

The match ended with both teams reduced to 10 men after red cards were shown to Miami's Yannick Bright and the Union's Sullivan in stoppage time for an off-ball altercation. Inter Miami entered the game second in the Eastern Conference after a significant 4-1 loss to conference leaders Nashville SC last Saturday, a match where Messi also played 90 minutes, missed a penalty, hit the post twice, and provided an assist.

Prior to Wednesday's draw, Miami had lost three straight games, including two against Mexican clubs in the Leagues Cup. Their MLS unbeaten streak, which dated back to May 9, was broken by the loss to Nashville. Meanwhile, the Union, under interim coach Ryan Richter, are unbeaten in their last five matches.