The Ukrainian returned to Milan earlier this week and was joined on duty at the club by Ronaldinho, who was making his competitive debut for the club following his move from Barcelona.

But they were still beaten in their season-opening league match, continuing the trend of poor home results which effectively condemned Milan to finishing only fifth last season.

Marco di Vaio put Bologna ahead in the 18th minute and, although Massimo Ambrosini got the Rossoneri back on level terms at the break, a wonder-goal from Francesco Valiani sealed the win for Bologna 10 minutes from time.

Shevchenko began as a substitute but came off the bench and received a rousing reception as he began his second spell at the club, later praising the fans, saying: "I did not expect such a welcome."

Title hopefuls Fiorentina and Juventus had to settle for a share of the points after a 1-1 draw on Sunday evening.

Juventus looked the sharper side throughout and deservedly took the lead through Pavel Nedved in the first half.

Alberto Gilardino levelled the scores late on despite the Viola having one man fewer following Felipe Melo's dismissal.

Inter Milan had also dropped points yesterday as they began the defence of their title under new boss Jose Mourinho.

Champions Inter launched their quest for a fourth straight Scudetto with a 1-1 draw at Sampdoria.

Roma, runners-up last season, could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to 10-man Napoli.

Roma went ahead in the 29th minute through Alberto Aquilani as they dominated the first half, but it was a different story in the second period with Marek Hamsik netting a deserved equaliser in the 55th minute - shortly after Fabiano Santacroce was sent off for the visitors.

Lazio enjoyed a much more productive afternoon, coming from behind to record a thumping 4-1 win at Cagliari.

Torino were 3-0 winners at home to newly-promoted Lecce, while other teams to enjoy winning starts were Atalanta, Catania and Chievo.