Soccer Betting Decoded: 8 Bet Types for Every Fan
In this post, we’ll unravel the secrets behind successful betting and explore 8 different bet types you can try right now. Before you dive in, please note: just like in other states, in Michigan, online gambling is only permitted for individuals who are 21 years of age or older, so make sure you’re eligible.
The 3-Way Moneyline
In three-way moneyline betting, you choose between three outcomes: Team A winning, Team B winning, or a Draw. The results are determined by 90 minutes of play, excluding overtime or penalty shootouts. For example, in the 2014 World Cup Final, the closing three-way moneyline for Germany vs. Argentina offered odds of +130 for Germany, +255 for Argentina, and +230 for a draw. If the game ends in a tie after regular time, the Draw bet cash.
The 2-Way Moneyline
The two-way moneyline offers two options: Double Chance and Draw No Bet. Double Chance lets you bet on a team to win/draw or either team to win. Draw No Bet eliminates the draw, refunding bets if it occurs. Both options are based on 90 minutes of play. For instance, the odds for Germany to win or draw could be -215, Argentina to win or draw at -165, and either team to win at -200.
Goal Lines (aka Spreads)
Goal lines or spreads function similarly to other sports. For example, in a match between the United States and Wales, the goal line might be set at -0.5 for the U.S. to win and +0.5 for Wales to win or draw. To cover the spread, the favored team must win by a certain margin, affecting the odds.
Totals & Over/Unders
Totals, or over/unders, predict the total number of goals in a match. The odds are adjusted based on the expected scoring environment. Positive odds for over indicate an expectation of more than 2.5 goals, while negative odds for under suggest fewer than 2.5 goals. This allows for varied betting options depending on the perceived game dynamics.
Asian Handicaps
Asian Handicaps, such as +1.25 or -1.75, split your bet into two parts. If you bet on the U.S. +0.75, you're essentially betting on the U.S. +0.5 and +1. This system also applies to totals, providing a nuanced approach to soccer betting.
Exotics & Parlays Based on Spreads & Totals
Sportsbooks offer a plethora of exotic bets and parlays derived from moneylines and totals. These include predicting exact winning margins, final scores, and specific team performance scenarios, providing diverse avenues for strategic betting
Both Teams to Score
A popular game prop is betting on whether both teams will score (BTTS) or not. Odds are provided for both possibilities, reflecting the book's assessment of the likelihood of each outcome. This adds an extra layer of excitement for fans who believe in the offensive capabilities of both teams.
Other Popular Props
World Cup events often feature other prop bets, enhancing the betting experience. Examples include over/under on corners, yellow cards, anytime goalscorer, first goalscorer, and predicting a team to win in a shutout or after trailing, offering a wide array of betting options for soccer enthusiasts.