Types of football bets explained
Football offers dozens of markets beyond "who wins". Knowing the main ones helps you pick the bet that best fits your read of the match. Here are the most widely used markets at the 2026 World Cup, explained with examples.
Full-time result (1X2)
The core market: you bet on a home win (1), a draw (X) or an away win (2). Simple and with clear odds, it is ideal to get started.
Double chance
You cover two of the three possible outcomes: 1X (home or draw), 12 (no draw) or X2 (draw or away). Lower odds in exchange for a higher chance of winning.
Over/Under goals
You bet on whether the total number of goals goes over or under a line, usually 2.5. "Over 2.5" wins with 3 or more goals; "Under 2.5" wins with 2 or fewer. It does not matter who scores.
Both teams to score (BTTS)
You bet on whether both teams score at least one goal (Yes/No), regardless of the final result.
Asian handicap
It gives a goal advantage or disadvantage to a team to balance out uneven matchups. Useful when a clear favourite has very low odds in the 1X2 market.
Accumulator bets
You combine several selections into a single bet. The odds multiply —higher payouts— but every selection must win, so the risk grows quickly. Use them in moderation.
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