Watch: Lionel Messi scores Inter Miami's first goal at Nu Stadium in draw with Austin FC

Argentine striker Lionel Messi scored Inter Miami's first goal at Nu Stadium when he found the net in the 10th minute against Austin FC on Saturday in Miami. Photo by Paolo Aguilar/EPA MIAMI, April 4 (UPI) -- Argentine soccer icon Lionel Messi netted Inter Miami's first goal at Nu Stadium, but the Herons struggled to find footing in the facility's debut, leading to a 2-2 draw with Austin FC on Saturday in Miami. Messi's 10th-minute score served as the first of two equalizers for the Herons in the $350 million stadium neighboring Miami International Airport.

Inter Miami owners Jorge and Jose Mas and David Beckham cut a ribbon to ceremoniously open Nu Stadium about three hours before kickoff of the matchup. Dust was literally still settling, with piles of dirt and construction equipment still present around the facility, as the first minutes ticked on the scoreboard inside the 26,700-seat structure. Marc Anthony serenaded fans with the national anthem before Herons supporters showed off the improved acoustics of their new home with a steady drumbeat throughout the match.

Once play got underway, the Herons threatened, but were unable to connect on several early chances. A lack of fluidity in their midfield led to fizzled-out attacks and left them vulnerable in transition. The Herons would outshoot their foes 27-8, dominate possession and hold an edge of nearly 300 in completed passes, but never held a scoring advantage.

Left back Guilherme Biro gave the Verde and Black an initial edge in the sixth minute. The Brazilian scored that goal when he beat Herons goalie Dayne St. Clair by heading in a corner kick from Uruguayan winger Facundo Torres.