How to Bet on Soccer
New to soccer betting? This guide covers everything you need to know to get started, from understanding odds to managing your bankroll.
Quick Start Guide
Create a STAKE account
Deposit funds (crypto or fiat)
Check our daily picks
Place your bets!
Understanding Odds
Odds tell you two things: the probability of an outcome and how much you'll win. American odds (used on STAKE) show how much you need to bet or can win based on $100.
| American | Decimal | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| -150 | 1.67 | Bet $150 to win $100 profit. Strong favorite. |
| +200 | 3.00 | Bet $100 to win $200 profit. Underdog. |
| -110 | 1.91 | Standard odds. Bet $110 to win $100. |
| EVEN | 2.00 | Bet $100 to win $100. True 50/50. |
Pro Tip: Negative odds (-) mean favorite, positive odds (+) mean underdog. The bigger the number, the stronger the favorite or the bigger the underdog.
Types of Soccer Bets
Moneyline (1X2)
The simplest bet - pick the winner or a draw.
Example
Arsenal to Win @ -150
Best for matches with clear favorites
Asian Handicap
One team gets a virtual head start. No draw option.
Example
Arsenal -0.5 (Arsenal must win)
Great for eliminating the draw option
Over/Under (Totals)
Bet on total goals scored in the match.
Example
Over 2.5 Goals @ -110
Popular for high-scoring leagues
Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
Will both teams score at least one goal?
Example
BTTS Yes @ -105
Good when both teams have attacking strength
Correct Score
Predict the exact final score.
Example
2-1 @ +650
High risk, high reward. Use sparingly.
Double Chance
Cover two of three outcomes (1X, X2, or 12).
Example
Arsenal or Draw @ -300
Safer but lower odds
Bankroll Management
The most important skill in sports betting isn't picking winners—it's managing your money. Follow these rules to bet responsibly and long-term.
The 1-5% Rule
Never bet more than 1-5% of your bankroll on a single bet.
With $1,000 bankroll, bet $10-50 max per pick.
Unit System
Use units (1u = fixed amount) instead of variable bet sizes.
1u = $25. A 2u bet = $50.
Track Everything
Keep records of all bets, wins, losses, and ROI.
Use a spreadsheet or betting tracker app.
Never Chase Losses
Stick to your unit size even after losing.
Lost 3 bets? Your next bet is still 1u.
How We Pick Winners
Our expert analysts consider multiple factors when making predictions:
- ✓Team form (last 5-10 matches)
- ✓Head-to-head records
- ✓Home/away performance
- ✓Injuries and suspensions
- ✓Motivation and league position
- ✓Historical odds value
- ✓Weather and pitch conditions
Responsible Gambling
Betting should be fun, not stressful. Please follow these guidelines:
- •Only bet what you can afford to lose
- •Set a budget and stick to it
- •Never chase losses
- •Take breaks regularly
- •If gambling stops being fun, stop
If you have a gambling problem, please visit BeGambleAware.org or call 1-800-522-4700.
Ready to Start?
Join STAKE today and use our expert picks to guide your betting.
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