Soccer is the most bet-on sport in the world — and for beginners in the U.S., it introduces a few key concepts that don't exist in American sports betting.
Once you understand the three-way market, soccer betting clicks quickly.
The Three-Way Moneyline (1X2)
Unlike American sports where one team must win, soccer games can end in a draw. That means every match has three possible outcomes to bet on:
- 1 — Home team wins
- X — Draw (tie)
- 2 — Away team wins
All three options are listed with their own odds. You must pick one. If you bet the home team and the game ends in a draw, you lose — even if the home team played well.
Example — Premier League:
- Arsenal (Home): +120
- Draw: +220
- Chelsea (Away): +240
The Double Chance Market
If picking one of three outcomes feels too risky, the double chance market covers two of the three possibilities:
- 1X — home team wins OR draw (you only lose if the away team wins)
- 12 — home OR away team wins (you only lose on a draw)
- X2 — draw OR away team wins (you only lose if the home team wins)
Double chance bets pay lower odds but give you two ways to win.
Key Soccer Bet Types
Asian handicap — a more advanced spread-style bet that eliminates the draw outcome, similar to a point spread. Great for experienced bettors seeking better value.
Total goals (Over/Under) — soccer totals are typically set at 2.5 goals (combined). Over 2.5 goals means three or more goals combined.
Both teams to score (BTTS) — a Yes/No bet on whether both teams score at least one goal. Popular and beginner-friendly.
Correct score — predict the exact final score. High payout, very difficult to win.
Tips for Beginner Soccer Bettors
- Focus on leagues you watch regularly — EPL, MLS, La Liga, Champions League
- Draws happen more than American bettors expect — roughly 25–30% of matches
- Check team news (injuries, suspensions, rotation) — managers rest players frequently in busy schedules
Track all your soccer bets in Oddible and see which leagues and markets you consistently call right.
