The Basics of Soccer Betting

Soccer betting can be a lucrative and rewarding activity. However, there are some things to keep in mind. For example, limiting the number of bets per slip and focusing on niche markets like corners can help reduce risk and increase your odds of winning.

Goal line bets focus on the total amount of goals scored in a match. These are usually presented as over/under totals, such as the common over/under 2.5 goals.

Moneyline bets

Moneyline bets are the most basic type of wager on soccer. They offer odds on both sides of the match, with a sportsbook adding a margin known as vig to each bet.

Soccer matchups often feature high-scoring encounters. While the outcome of a game may seem obvious, there are several variables that can alter the course of the match. One red card, one injury, or even a goal can drastically alter the final score.

Three-way moneylines are available for most soccer matches. These bets include a third betting option that allows you to bet on a draw. They are popular in soccer because games can end in a tie after 90 minutes of regulation.

Parlay bets

A parlay bet is a wager that combines two or more outcomes. Sportsbooks usually don’t allow correlated parlays, such as betting on an underdog team to win and record a clean sheet in the same match. It’s important to consider a team’s schedule when making these bets, as the result of one game can drastically impact the outcome of the next.

Props are bets on specific events or statistics during a soccer match. They are often presented in an over/under format, such as the total number of corner kicks in a match. These bets offer higher payoffs but require a greater understanding of soccer trends and strategies.

Prop bets

Prop bets are a great way to add an extra level of engagement and excitement to soccer matches. These bets offer more diverse betting options than traditional wagers, and they allow players to showcase their knowledge and intuition in new ways.

Team and player props are the most common types of soccer bets. The most common team props are offered on over/under basis and focus on specific outcomes within a match, like how many goals a particular team will score or how many corner kicks they will take. These bets are based on past performance and recent trends between two teams. They also consider factors such as home and away form, and injury history.

Futures bets

Futures bets involve long-term predictions on things like team and player performance. They are typically available before a tournament begins, and the odds will shift as the competition progresses. They can offer substantial payoffs but require a broader view of the sport.

A team’s home and road trends are important for match-up analysis. Also, it is helpful to look at their recent schedule for any potential “trap games,” where they face an opponent that will be difficult to beat.

Derivative soccer odds allow bettors to place bets on specific segments of a game, including three-way moneylines and totals for designated time frames. These betting markets also include Asian handicap lines, which offer a more complex way to wager on soccer spreads and totals.

Asian handicaps

Asian handicaps are a type of soccer spread betting that works much like the run line in baseball or puck line in hockey. These fractional spreads are helpful for players who want to protect their wager against specific outcomes.

They work by adding a goal deficit or surplus to one team, thereby leveling the playing field for bettors. They also offer a higher chance of winning than standard moneyline and Over/Under bets.

However, Asian handicaps are more complicated than traditional betting markets, and bettors must research team form, head-to-head records, and injuries to make informed decisions. Additionally, bettors must consider the amount of juice on a typical 1×2 or total market.

Over/Under bets

Whether you’re watching your favorite team play or just want to have some fun with your wagers, soccer betting is an entertaining way to enjoy the beautiful game. Having a basic understanding of how to place bets can help you find value and make the most of your money.

Over/Under bets work similarly to other sports betting totals, with oddsmakers setting a number that you can bet over or under. In soccer matches, the standard total is 2.5 goals. However, some sportsbooks offer preset parlays like “Team A to win to nil” or “Team A to keep a clean sheet.”

These bets are graded on the final result after 90 minutes of play (Regular Time). Unlike three-way moneylines, these bets do not include injury or penalty kicks.