Betting in football has become a huge part of the sport and the way we watch it. In recent times, you can bet on pretty much any match event, from the winning side to the number of throw-ins in a game. From teams in the English Premier League to as small as the Kazakhstan First Division. It is undeniable how substantial the role of betting is in the modern game.
The Rise in Football Betting
Some may find it hard to believe that one of the most popular and common activities related to football was once regarded as illegal. This meant people had to create their own personal wagers amongst friends. While you could assume football betting only started when the sport became an official league format, the origins of betting on football and when it first occurred are unknown.It wasn’t until the 1920s that football betting became more and more popular amongst fans, adding further entertainment to the spectating experience of the sport in the opinions of those who took part in it. Roughly 40 years later, in 1960, football betting was finally made legal as it was thought to be believed it would reduce the risk of crimes surrounding illegal bets and financial confrontations. From that point onwards, football betting has only evolved into what we have today.
But what are some of the most effective strategies when it comes to football betting?
Matched Betting
Matched betting is an example of one way to place a bet on football. It is the process of utilising free offers or sign-in bonuses and then finding and placing a bet opposite of the exchange, resulting in a win either way the bet goes.For example, if a free bet is offered on a home team to win, that bet can be placed. Then, a separate bet can be made on the opposing team to lose or draw, ensuring that all outcomes are accounted for. This method is commonly used across various betting platforms, with bookmaker promotions frequently introduced for new users.
Bet Live On Over 1.5 Goals
Betting live on over 1.5 goals involves selecting a match expected to feature goals, ideally with an expected goals (xG) value of at least 1.20 before kick-off. The approach involves waiting for the odds on over 1.5 goals to increase due to a prolonged 0-0 scoreline. The longer the game remains goalless, the more the odds will rise. Placing a bet before half-time is often recommended, as this can provide a reasonable opportunity for at least two goals to be scored.If a goal is scored shortly after placing the bet, there may be an option to cash out. Alternatively, holding onto the bet and waiting for a second goal could lead to a greater return value. Watching the game live and analysing how the match is developing is advisable when using this approach.
Betting On A Draw
While not the most common choice, betting on a draw can sometimes be an effective approach in certain matches. For example, betting on a draw in a game between a strong favourite and an underdog may not always be practical. However, matches featuring teams of similar strength, such as Southampton vs Leicester, could provide a more suitable opportunity.One way to assess whether a draw is a possible outcome is by checking handicap odds. If the handicap is set to 0, it may indicate that bookmakers see no clear favourite, meaning a draw could be a reasonable outcome. Although betting on a draw may not always make for the most engaging viewing experience, it could sometimes offer higher odds in specific matches. Using this approach selectively may prove to be beneficial.
Become An Expert In A Certain League
The final most effective betting strategy is learning and becoming extremely knowledgeable in the league you typically bet on. If the league that you commonly bet on is the Premier League, stick to that as your focus. It is pointless to bet on a league you take no interest in or have no knowledge of, as that provides a higher likelihood that you place a bet that it may not be as effective as you thought.Being educated on the league and team you are betting on greatly impacts how you place your bet and the most likely outcome based on the team's previous performances and current form. There are many things that can be considered when placing a bet, including:
- Current Form
- Head-to-Head Record
- Current League Position
- Any Major Injury Setbacks
- Bookmaker’s Odds