Relegation candidates Bologna have defeated Atalanta 2-1 at home in Serie A.

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The home side went ahead in the 16th minute when Alessandro Diamanti's free kick was deflected into his own goal by German Denis.

Thomas Manfredini thought that he had scored for Atalanta just five minutes later, but play had been stopped before his header went in.

Atalanta goalkeeper Andrea Consigli was forced into making a good reflex save just minutes later when Frederik Sorenson shot on target.

Manolo Gabbiadini's subsequent attempt from the rebound came off the post.

Denis equalised for Atalanta five minutes into the second half when he fired home a diagonal shot after catching Federico Agliardi off his line in the Bologna goal.

However, with 20 minutes left on the clock, Bologna regained their advantage and scored the eventual winner through Gabbiadini, who turned in Mathias Abero's header from close range.