Lionel Messi hit back swiftly for Inter Miami but they could not overcome Toronto FC in a 1-1 draw in MLS.

The point leaves Miami second in the Eastern Conference, one point behind leaders Columbus Crew having played a game fewer. Toronto, meanwhile, are second-bottom and still looking for their first victory.

The match itself was a competitive affair, with both sides matching the other for intensity. Inside the first 20 minutes, Toronto hit the woodwork twice, while Miami had two first-half goals disallowed.

Federico Bernardeschi put the visitors ahead in the second minute of first-half stoppage time after Sergio Busquets had given the ball away.

Lorenzo Insigne worked the ball to Bernardeschi, who managed to evade three defenders and stroke home. But Messi was on hand to get Miami back on level terms just three minutes later.

The Argentine hit a left-footed shot from inside the penalty area for his third league goal of the season, with it also surviving a video review for a possible handball.

While the action calmed down somewhat in the second half, the hosts had the chance to nick it and record their first victory of the season.

Nicksoen Gomis made a game-saving contribution late on, getting the ball away from an onrushing Miami attack to go clean through on goal.

Data debrief: Magical Messi breaks records

Miami's goal represented Messi's 40th for the club in all competitions since joining in July 2023.

It was also his 44th goal contribution (24 goals, 20 assists), which puts him ahead of Gonzalo Higuain for the most in the MLS regular season.

For Toronto, though, the three-minute spell in which they had the lead was only the second time they have been ahead in a game this season.