Soccer, or football as it’s known in many parts of the world, is one of the most popular sports to bet on. However, if you’re new to sports betting, the different types of bets, odds, and markets can be confusing. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll break down the basics of soccer betting and help you get started.
Understanding Odds
Before placing a bet, it’s important to understand the odds. Odds are the probability of an outcome occurring and are expressed in a variety of formats, including decimal, fractional, and American.
Decimal odds are the most common format used in Europe and are represented as a decimal, such as 1.75. To calculate your potential payout, simply multiply your stake by the odds. For example, a $10 bet at odds of 1.75 would result in a $17.50 payout.
Fractional odds are commonly used in the UK and are expressed as a fraction, such as 3/1. The numerator represents the potential payout and the denominator represents the stake. For example, a $10 bet at odds of 3/1 would result in a $30 payout ($20 profit plus the original $10 stake).
American odds are commonly used in the United States and are expressed as either a positive or negative number, such as +150 or -200. Positive odds represent the potential profit on a $100 bet, while negative odds represent the amount you would need to bet to win $100. For example, a bet at odds of +150 would result in a $150 profit on a $100 bet, while a bet at odds of -200 would require a $200 bet to win $100.
Understanding Markets
The term “market” is used to describe a specific sort of wager in football betting, such as “match winner,” “over/under,” or “correct score.” The match winner and over/under are the two most common markets, although there are many more.
Simply put, the match winner market is a wager on the victor of a given match. Recognising that a draw is a viable conclusion in soccer games, many betting sites have a “three-way market” that incorporates it.
The over/under market is a wager on whether or not the total number of goals scored in a game will be above or below a certain target. If the over/under is set at 2.5 goals, for instance, a bettor who chooses the over must hope that at least three goals will be scored in the game.
The first goalscorer market asks the bettor to pick the player who will score the game’s first goal, while the right score market has them guessing the final score.
Types of Bets
There are several types of bets that can be placed in soccer betting, including single bets, accumulators, and system bets.
A single bet is a straightforward bet on a single outcome, such as a team to win or a player to score a goal. An accumulator, also known as a parlay or multiple, is a bet on multiple outcomes. To win an accumulator, all of the individual bets within it must be successful.
System bets are a combination of multiple bets that cover different outcomes, increasing the chances of winning. For example, a Trixie bet is a system bet that includes three individual bets and four combinations, covering all possible outcomes.
Where you can make your bets
When it comes to placing soccer bets, there are several options available. One traditional option is to visit a physical sportsbook, where you can place bets in person. This can be a fun and social experience, as you can watch games and interact with other bettors. However, it may not always be convenient or accessible, especially if you don’t live near a sports book.
Another popular option is to use an online sportsbook, which allows you to place bets from the comfort of your own home using a computer or mobile device. Online sportsbooks offer several advantages, including convenience, accessibility, and a wider variety of markets and betting options. They also often offer bonuses and promotions, such as free bets or deposit matches, to entice new customers.
When choosing an online sportsbook, it’s important to choose a reputable one with a good reputation and reliable payment options. Look for sports books that are licensed and regulated in your jurisdiction and check out customer reviews and ratings to see what others have experienced. It’s also a good idea to compare different sports books to find the best fit for your betting needs, including the types of bets and markets available, as well as the odds and payout rates.
Conclusion
Soccer betting can be a fun and exciting way to add some extra excitement to watching a match. By understanding the basics of odds, markets, and types of bets, you can start to place informed bets and hopefully come out ahead. Remember to always gamble responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose.
