If you’ve ever glanced at a betting slip and felt lost, you’re not alone. Football odds are just numbers that tell you how likely a result is and how much you could win. Getting the basics down can make a big difference to your betting confidence, especially if you follow African leagues or the big European games.
In this guide we’ll break down the most common odds formats, show where to find reliable odds, and give you simple tricks to use them without risking more than you’re comfortable with.
Decimal odds are the most popular in South Africa and many African countries. A number like 2.75 means you get $2.75 back for every $1 you stake – that includes your original bet. So a $10 bet would return $27.50 if you win.
Fractional odds are common in the UK. You’ll see something like 5/2. The first number is what you win, the second is what you stake. A $10 bet at 5/2 wins $25, plus your $10 back, for $35 total.
American odds look different: a positive number (+150) shows how much profit you make on a $100 stake, while a negative number (-200) tells you how much you need to bet to win $100. They’re less used in Africa but appear on some international sites.
All three formats tell the same thing – the implied chance of an outcome. You can easily convert between them with a quick calculator or by using the simple formulas: probability = 1/decimal, or probability = denominator/(numerator+denominator) for fractions.
Understanding the implied probability helps you spot value. If a bookmaker offers odds that suggest a 30% chance of a team winning, but you think the real chance is 40%, that’s a potential value bet.
Compare odds before you place a bet. Different bookmakers – Betway, Hollywoodbets, and local bookies – often have small differences. Even a 0.10 change in decimal odds can add up over many bets.
Stick to a bankroll. Decide how much you’re willing to risk each week and never chase losses. A common rule is to bet 1–2% of your total bankroll on a single wager.
Watch the market. Odds move as news comes in – injuries, line‑ups, weather. If you see a sudden drop in odds for a team, it might be because the market has new info. Use that to reassess your own view.
Avoid emotional bets. Supporting your favourite club is fun, but betting on them just because you love them can hurt your long‑term results. Treat each pick like a business decision.
Keep records. Write down the match, odds, stake and result. Over time you’ll see which types of bets work best for you and where you need to improve.
By following these steps you’ll read football odds like a pro and make smarter, more profitable choices. Remember, odds are a tool, not a guarantee – use them wisely and enjoy the game.
The highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinal between France and Portugal is set for 3 p.m. ET at Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, Germany. With France favored and Portugal considered underdogs, the match promises intense competition. Expert Jon 'Buckets' Eimer offers valuable insights, particularly on goal totals. Star players Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo are key to watch in this thrilling encounter.
View more