How the Over/Under Goals & Handicaps Market Works










If you're just starting out in the world of sports betting, certain terms can seem intimidating – especially in the goals market, which is full of interesting opportunities.

However, it is not as complex as it seems.

It is essential to understand these terms, especially if your goal is to make a real profit. See all the details below!

The Meaning of Under and Over in the Goals Market

These terms are related to the outcome of a match not so much in relation to the winner, but rather the number of goals scored!

Under and Over are words in English that mean, respectively, “under” and “above” in the betting market.

The most common bet is 2.5 – when betting on Under 2.5, you predict that the game will have a maximum of two goals (under 2.5).

Now, by betting on Over 2.5 (more than 2.5), you are suggesting that the match will have three goals or more.

Simple, right? And so, the results are easily defined:

  • 2-1 Over 2.5;
  • 1-1 Under 2.5;
  • 1-0 Under 2.5;
  • 3-0 Over 2.5;
  • And so on.

What Does 0.5 Goals Mean?

Don't worry, it doesn't mean the ball will be exactly on the goal line. The 0.5 goals market is for situations where there are no goals in the match.

Betting on OVER 0.5, if there is a goal, you win. And if the match ends 0x0 and you bet on UNDER, you also win.

Right?

Now let's address another similar market, called handicapping.

EUROPEAN HANDICAP: How does it work with 2 Goals, 4 Goals, 5 Handicap?

As you can imagine, the 2.5 isn't the only Under/Over option. There are also 3.5, 4.5 and so on.

The difference is that when betting on integer amounts, your bet can be voided and your money returned. For example, if you bet on Under 4 (less than 4 goals) and the match ends with exactly 4 goals, you get your money back.

You should also know the Asian handicap, which makes it possible to write off half of the won/lost amount, depending on the situation:

Example: Over 2.5,3 goals (2,75)

If the match ends with exactly 3 goals, you receive half the prize (the rest is returned).

And if you finish with 4 goals or more, you receive the entire prize.

As you can see, the terms and nomenclature may seem complicated, but they are easy to understand.

It takes a while to assimilate, but the European and Asian handicap markets offer great opportunities for bettors looking for good odds.

Now that you've learned the basics, the next step is to understand the strategies for the market you want to bet on! Stay focused and good luck!