Understanding the main types of sports betting

Sports betting is based on a variety of markets, each with its own rules. Before making a choice, it’s useful to understand how they work. This helps you better read the game and follow matches with more insight.

Some markets are very simple, such as predicting the winner of a match, while others offer more variety, like handicaps or player-based bets. Here’s an overview of the most common types of sports betting.

Classic football betting markets

The “winner” sports bet is the most straightforward. It involves selecting the team that will score the most goals by the end of regular time (90 minutes, including stoppage time).

The “total goals” market focuses on the number of goals scored during a match. Depending on the bet selected, the total must be higher or lower than a given number. For example, with “over 2.5 goals,” at least three goals must be scored.

The “both teams to score” market is simple: each team must score at least once during the match. If not, the bet is lost.

The “double chance” bet covers two out of three possible outcomes. This provides greater flexibility by allowing you to choose between a win or a draw, depending on the option selected.

Player-focused sports betting

Some markets focus on individual performance. The “goalscorer” bet involves selecting a player who must score during the match. To be valid, the player must take part in the game, and own goals are not counted.

The “first goalscorer” and “last goalscorer” bets follow the same principle, but apply to the first or last goal scored in the match.

Handicaps and combination bets

Handicap betting helps balance the difference between two teams. The Asian handicap gives a virtual advantage or disadvantage in goals. For example, with a -1.5 handicap, a team must win by at least two goals.

The European handicap works similarly, with the added option of betting on a draw.

The “half-time/full-time” bet combines two results: the score at half-time and at full-time. Both must be correct for the bet to win.

Betting markets related to match events

Some bets relate to specific aspects of a match. The “total cards” market is based on the number of cards shown during the game. It is also possible to bet on which team will receive the most cards.

The “winner rest of the match,” available in live betting, only considers events from the moment the bet is placed. The score is treated as level when the bet is placed.

Finally, the “to qualify or win the trophy” market includes the entire match, including extra time and possible penalty shootouts.

Sports betting markets for other disciplines

The same principles apply across other sports, with a few adjustments.

In tennis, the “winner” bet involves selecting the player who will win the match. Variants include game or set handicaps, adding a virtual advantage or disadvantage.

In ice hockey, you can bet on the result at the end of regular time or on the final winner including overtime and shootouts.

In darts, markets include the match winner as well as specific performances such as the highest checkout or the “King of the Oche,” which combines several criteria.

In basketball, the “winner” bet always includes overtime, ensuring a final result with no draw.

Why understanding betting types matters

Different markets allow you to approach a match from multiple angles. Some focus on the result, others on the number of points or individual player performance.

Understanding these options helps you navigate the available bets more effectively and follow matches with a clearer perspective. Now that you know more about the different types of markets, you’re ready to try new types of sports bets!