The Rangers midfielder was involved in helping the home side to a 2-0 lead at Windsor Park as his crosses set up Shane Ferguson and former Ger Kyle Lafferty to score.
The Finns turned things round to lead 3-2 before a late penalty saw Michael O'Neill's side level.
Shiels featured for the full 90 minutes, while Ibrox team mate Andy Little was among the unused substitutes.
Also in action was Maurice Edu who was in the USA team that recorded a historic victory over neighbours and rivals Mexico.
The 26-year-old featured for the full 90 minutes of the 1-0 victory at the Azteca Stadium that saw the Americans clinch a first ever victory on Mexican soil.
Ex-Ger DaMarcus Beasley also played a part as a second half substitute, appearing in the country in which he now plays his club football.
Ian Black also won his first cap, but was disappointingly booed by Scotland fans during the 3-1 victory over Australia at Easter Road.
Elsewhere Andy Mitchell and Chris Hegarty both featured for Northern Ireland's under-21 side in a 3-2 defeat in Hungary.
