What is over/under odds? Types of over/under odds
Before learning how to read over/under football odds, we need to understand clearly the definition of this type of odds as well as how they are classified. So what is over/under odds?
Definition of over/under odds
Over/under odds, also known as O/U or Over/Under bets, are based on the home win prediction of the total score of a match. You only need to consider how many goals both teams will score in total, regardless of which team wins or loses.
Bookmakers' betting experts will analyze, predict, and provide a number. You will choose either over (Over) or under (Under) depending on your analysis. If you believe that the total number of goals scored will be higher than the bookmaker's number, you can choose over (Over); conversely, if you think the total number of goals will be lower than the bookmaker's number, you should choose under (Under).
This type of bet is favored and chosen by many newcomers. Compared to Asian handicap or European handicap bets, reading over/under football odds is considered quite simple, easy to understand, and remember. However, to make the most accurate predictions, you need to understand the odds and make the most accurate predictions.
Classification of over/under odds
Before learning how to read over/under football odds, we need to understand the two main types of over/under bets today:
First-half over/under bet: The result is based on the total number of goals scored by both teams in the first half.
Full match over/under bet: It considers the total number of goals scored in the official 90 minutes + extra time, excluding goals scored in extra time.
How to read over/under football odds
In over/under betting, the bookmaker will provide a certain number, and you will choose one of the two betting options, which are over and under. Over corresponds to the upper door, and under corresponds to the lower door. In the case where the total number of goals scored matches the bookmaker's number, the bet is a draw, and the initial bet amount is refunded. Some common over/under football odds and how to read them include:
Over/Under 1
This is considered the simplest over/under odds. How to read over/under football odds with a ratio of 1 is understood as follows: the bookmaker predicts that there will be only 1 goal scored in the match. Therefore:
If there are 2 or more goals scored in the match, those who choose over win the bet.
If there is exactly 1 goal scored in the match, those who choose under win the bet.
If the match ends in a 0-0 draw, both sides draw, and the bet is refunded.
Similarly, for matches with odds of 2, 3,..., n, if the number of goals scored is greater than the bookmaker's number, choose over to win, and vice versa. This is the simplest method of calculating draw bets.
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Over/Under 1 ¼
This is a more complex over/under odds compared to over/under 1. Specifically:
If there are 2 or more goals scored in the match, those who choose over win the full amount.
If the match ends in a 0-0 draw, those who choose over win the bet.
If there is exactly 1 goal scored in the match, those who choose over lose half of their bet amount, and conversely, those who choose under win half of their bet amount.
Reading over/under football odds of 2 ¼, 3 ¼ follows a similar pattern. On the odds table, these over/under odds are usually written in the form of 1 - 1.5; 2 - 2.5...
Over/Under 1 ½
Reading over/under football odds with a ratio of 1 ½ will be different from odds of 1 and 1 ¼. This is a ratio that does not have a draw option. Specifically:
If the match ends with 2 or more goals scored, those who choose over win the full amount.
If the match ends in a 0-0 draw or only 1 goal is scored, those who choose under win the full amount.
Reading over/under odds like this is also similar for ratios like 2 ½ or 3 ½.
Over/Under 1 ¾
This is another commonly seen over/under odds in over/under betting. Reading this ratio is as follows:
If there are 3 or more goals scored in the match, those who choose over win the full amount.
If there are 2 goals scored in the match, those who choose over win half of their bet amount, and those who choose under lose half of their bet amount.
In other cases (no goals scored, only 1 goal scored), those who choose under win the full amount.
On the odds table, over/under 1 ¾ will be written in the form of 1.5 - 2. Reading over/under odds of 2 ¾ or 3 ¾ follows a similar pattern.
How to bet on over/under odds for both full match and first half
Reading over/under football odds for the first half is similar to reading full match odds. However, the analysis and decision-making process may differ.
For full match odds:
These are the odds where you need to consider the total number of goals after 90 minutes (including extra time). To determine the number of goals, you need to pay attention to factors such as:
Playing styles of both teams (attacking or defensive)
Head-to-head history (whether there are usually many or few goals scored)
Recent form
Team news and player form. Sometimes, the absence of a key player in attack or defense can significantly affect a team's gameplay.
Additionally, you can also consider opinions and analysis from experts before placing your bet. Think carefully because you won't be able to change your decision once you've placed your bet.
For first half odds:
In addition to betting on full match over/under, you can also bet on first half over/under. Although the way to read the odds and the payout rules remain the same, the analysis and prediction methods may vary significantly. Without innovation in how to read over/under football odds, you may face losses.
Typically, the first 45 minutes of play are a period where teams play at a slower pace, probing their opponents. This is especially true in matches with direct confrontations or where there isn't much difference in the quality between the two teams. The first half usually sees fewer scoring opportunities, so the number of goals scored is also lower.
At this time, bookmakers often offer low odds like 1/2, 1 1/2... You need to carefully observe the playing style of the teams to make your choice. If you find the first half over/under odds too high, consider carefully, especially with odds like 2, 3. Typically, there are very few matches with 3 – 4 goals scored in the first half.
Conclusion
It's evident that grasping over/under odds isn't challenging, but interpreting them accurately to boost your winning bets is a different story. By delving into this article, you've likely gained a better grasp of how to read over/under football odds and acquired some valuable insights. Keep building your knowledge through match analysis, seek expert opinions, and you'll discover that dissecting over/under odds isn't as daunting as it seems. And remember, applying tips win can significantly enhance your success rate.