Inter Miami struggled throughout their first road trip of the 2024 MLS season, but they leaned on their Argentine superstar when the going got tough.

The LA Galaxy pummeled Inter Miami for much of their home opener, and led late through Dejan Joveljic’s opener with 15 minutes to go, but Lionel Messi’s first goal of the season in stoppage time snatched a share of the points in a 1-1 draw from Dignity Health Sports Park.

The opening 45 minutes saw the Galaxy totally dominate, missing a host of chances to make good on their pressure and go in front. Drake Callender made two sensational saves on Riqui Puig, including one from the penalty spot. New signing Joseph Paintsil was electric in the counter-attack, but he and Puig couldn’t find the finishing touch.

Finally, in the 75th minute, they grabbed the lead through Joveljic, but it wouldn’t last long. Mark Delgado was sent off for a second yellow card, and given new life, Messi combined brilliantly with Jordi Alba to secure the late equalizer 92 minutes in and peg the Galaxy back.