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So you want to bet on soccer do you? There’s a couple things you should know. Some of these may seem obvious, but you’ll be surprised how many people ignore this advice and “go with their gut”. Never bet with emotion – it’s a surefire way to lose your money. That is not to say you shouldn’t trust your instincts, but those should be based on your knowledge of the teams at play. The best luck of all is the luck you make for yourself.
Form may be temporary, but it’s all-important
This might seem like an obvious one, but bookmakers and punters still tend to follow name and reputation. Take Burnley for example – this season they have been outstanding in getting results against the top teams. And yet, they often go into games as massive underdogs. It’s worth taking a closer look at a team’s home or away record. There’s value to be found if you look hard enough.
The dreaded bogey-team
Form can only take you so far, especially when it comes to certain teams. Remember when Arsenal couldn’t buy a result against Tony Pulis’ Stoke or Big Sam’s Bolton? Some teams just can’t perform against certain players and tactics. Always be sure to check out the head-to-head records – it could be a telling factor. There’s also value to be found on individual players who have a habit of scoring against certain clubs. Wayne Rooney has a superb record against Arsenal, while Romelu Lukaku can’t stop scoring against West Ham. An anytime goalscorer bet is the way to go.
Form players can yield big returns
If you’d started putting money on Harry Kane at the start of this year, there’s no telling how much money you’d have in your account by now. The same can be said of Radamel Falcao or Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang over in Germany. The value comes in backing these players to score first rather than anytime. If anyone is going to break the deadlock, it’s going to be them. Make sure you cash in.
Beware the midweek hangover
This one works both ways. Teams with important European ties midweek are more likely to rest their key players over the weekend. This can have a huge impact on the outcome of the result. In the same way, team’s that have played midweek will have less time to prepare for the weekend’s match. It’s important to note travel time and the amount of time between matches. Teams competing in the Europa League are at the greatest risk of a midweek hangover. English teams, in particular, are known to struggle after Europa League duty.
Team news can be all-important
This one is a bit tougher to track. While long-term injuries are easy to monitor, players are often withdrawn at the last minute. Keeping an eye on the team-sheets an hour before kick-off can be the difference between a winning and losing bet. Late injuries to key players can throw out a team’s preparations completely. The shrewd punter will be there to take advantage.
