What is European Odds? The Most Detailed Guide to Understanding 1X2 Betting
European odds, also known as 1X2 odds, are among the most popular betting formats widely used in football betting. Due to their simplicity and accessibility, they are a favorite among both beginner and experienced bettors. This guide from vip soccer prediction will provide a comprehensive explanation of what European odds are and how to read and bet on them accurately. If you're interested in learning how to master this betting type, don't skip this article!
What are European Odds?
European odds, commonly referred to as 1X2 odds, represent a basic form of betting offered by nearly all online bookmakers. This betting format is often listed on odds boards under the "1X2" column and is considered one of the simplest types to understand and wager on.
Unlike Asian Handicap or Over/Under betting—where you have to analyze goal spreads or total goals—European odds only new soccer prediction site require you to choose one of three possible outcomes of a football match:
1: Home team wins
X: Match ends in a draw
2: Away team wins
There is no need to worry about how many goals will be scored or who scores them. Instead, your focus is simply on the final result after the regular 90 minutes of play (not including extra time or penalty shootouts).
This format makes European odds a great starting point for newcomers to the world of football betting. It’s easy to learn and football prediction apps straightforward to apply in real match scenarios.
Types of 1X2 Betting Odds
European odds are generally divided into two categories:
FT.1X2 – Full-Time 1X2: Predicts the result at the end of the full match (90 minutes).
1H.1X2 – First-Half 1X2: Predicts the result at the end of the first 45 minutes.
These options allow bettors to diversify their strategies depending on the match flow, team form, or specific betting approach.
How to Read European Odds (1X2) in Detail
As explained earlier, European odds provide three betting options based on match outcomes. However, understanding how these odds are presented on the bookmaker’s odds board is crucial.
Odds Board Display
On a standard odds board, you'll find the 1X2 column usually labeled clearly. Here's how to interpret it:
The home team is listed on the top.
The away team is listed below.
The third row represents the draw (X).
Sometimes, you might notice that the team names are highlighted in red. This typically indicates the favorite or stronger team—the one most likely to win according to the bookmaker.
Explanation of 1X2 Odds
The three columns or rows under 1X2 represent:
1 (Home Team Win): You bet on the home team to win.
X (Draw): You bet on a draw result.
2 (Away Team Win): You bet on the away team to win.
Let’s say the odds are displayed as:
1: 2.10
X: 3.30
2: 3.50
This means:
If the home team wins, and you placed a $100 bet on "1", you’ll get $210.
If the match ends in a draw, and you bet on "X", you get $330.
If the away team wins, a bet on "2" returns $350.
It’s important to note that in European odds, the payout includes your initial stake.
Betting Tips for European Odds (1X2)
1. Beware of “Trap Odds” from Bookmakers
Bookmakers often manipulate odds to lure players into betting on underdogs by offering very high odds. This is known as a “trap bet” or “bait odds”.
These inflated odds may tempt inexperienced bettors with the possibility of a big win. However, the actual probability of the underdog winning is often much lower than the odds suggest.
Tip: To avoid falling for traps, try placing your bet 3–5 days in advance of the match. As the match day approaches, bookmakers may adjust odds aggressively to manipulate betting behavior
2. Full-Time 1X2 Betting Strategy
If you’re placing a Full-Time 1X2 bet, consider applying these strategic principles:
The favorite team (often the home side) should have odds in the range of 1.20 – 1.50.
Avoid matches with extremely high betting volume, as they are often volatile or manipulated.
Subtract the odds of the underdog from the favorite team. If the difference is greater than 4.00 to 5.00, it's a strong indicator that the bet is relatively safe.
Check the draw odds. If they range between 4.00 and 4.50, it indicates a balanced and safe bet.
These strategies help reduce risks and increase your chances of successful betting.
Final Thoughts
European odds (1X2) offer a simple yet effective way to get started with football betting. By understanding how to read the odds, avoid bait from bookmakers, and apply the right strategies, you significantly improve your chances of winning.
We hope this in-depth guide provides valuable knowledge to help you make smarter bets. Apply these tips, stay informed, and may your wagers bring great returns!