Strategy · 2023-11-23

The Intricacies of Over/Under Betting in Soccer

Exploring the Over/Under (Goals) Betting Strategy

Many enthusiasts wonder why the over/under betting strategy, which predicts the number of goals in a game, is so prevalent in our recommendations. Let's dive into this intriguing aspect of soccer betting.

Simply put, the over/under betting strategy involves predicting whether the number of goals in a match will be high or low. Typically, the threshold set by bookmakers ranges between 2 and 3 goals, with markers like 2.25, 2.5, or 2.75. However, in leagues known for high-scoring games, such as the Dutch Eerste Divisie, Norwegian First Division, or certain Australian regional leagues (like A-League, Victorian Premier League, etc.), the threshold might start at 3.25 or even 3.5 goals.

In the context of national sports betting, this is akin to betting on the total number of goals. 'Under' bets encompass the options of 0, 1, or 2 goals, while 'over' bets include scenarios of 3, 4, 5, or more goals. Most matches, including high-scoring ones like 3:3 or 4:2, usually feature less than 5 goals, accounting for less than 14% of game outcomes.

Since I began betting in 2000, the over/under strategy has been my preferred choice due to its distinct advantages and operational tactics. I'd like to share my insights on this topic.

During the 2012 European Championship, I wrote extensive match analyses on soccer forums. In one such analysis, I expressed a personal sentiment: "Betting on over is a waiting game, while betting on under is like waiting for doom." Indeed, when you bet on 'over,' you're in a constant state of anticipation until the match reaches the set threshold. Every shot and every moment in the penalty area becomes a nerve-wracking experience, as you hope for no penalties and no goals against your bet.

For true soccer fans who enjoy watching and reveling in the game, betting on 'over' aligns more with their values. A real fan wouldn’t want a dull game or wish for it to end quickly, which is the mindset when betting on 'under.'

1. Clear Objectives, Defined Phenomena

Compared to handicap betting, over/under betting offers a clearer expectation of the game’s pace. For instance, if you bet on 'over,' you would prefer a fast-paced game with fewer fouls, less referee intervention, more offensive play, and more shots on goal. The ideal setup includes three forwards, preferably fast and tall, with a variety of unique skills.

On the other hand, if you bet on 'under,' you’d want the opposite – a slower game, with cautious play and solid defense. While handicap betting lacks this clarity, over/under betting benefits from a well-defined expectation of the game's style.

2. Better Mindset Control

As mentioned earlier, betting on 'over' is a waiting game, but not necessarily a hopeless one. In many matches, the outcome can be decided within the first 20 to 30 minutes if several goals are scored quickly. This early resolution allows you to plan your next steps without worrying about a reversal. In contrast, with 'under' bets, if the scoreline kills your bet early, you can quickly accept the outcome and move on. This decisiveness is often missing in handicap betting, where the uncertainty lasts until the final whistle.

3. Versatile Operations

The over/under strategy allows for more diverse betting operations. For example, if you initially bet on 'over 3' and three goals are scored within the first 30 minutes, you could then bet on 'under 5' for the remainder of the game. This combination betting strategy can either secure your profits early or potentially double them, depending on the game's final score.

In conclusion, over/under betting offers advantages in mindset, expectations, and operational flexibility compared to traditional win/loss betting. It’s particularly beneficial for those who understand soccer well and can collect comprehensive information about teams' styles and tactics. If you find over/under betting aligns with your winning strategy, why not focus on it instead of the more unpredictable win/loss bets?


For more information, please join the Premium Subscription and get the link to The blogger's Telegram Group.

Join Premium Subscription

Users pay $7 per month to gain access to an elite membership group. The blogger selects and analyzes soccer matches daily within the group, including changes in data, team preparation strategies, player conditions, and the most probable trends in match outcomes. This approach has a relatively high and stable success rate, with results that are publicly traceable.

"Visible to Premium Members only."