The difference between betting on a favorite and an underdog
Sports betting requires a clear understanding of who is the favorite and who is the underdog. This helps to correctly assess the risks and correlate them with potential profit. It is important for a player to understand the differences between these two categories of participants and how to use this information to build a strategy.
The Parimatch online bookmaker platform allows you to track how the odds on favorites and underdogs change before the match and in live. This is convenient for comparison and making decisions depending on the game model.
Here are the main differences between betting on a favorite and an underdog that you need to consider when choosing events:
- The size of the odds. The odds on favorites are always lower – in the range of 1.20-1.70, sometimes a little higher. This means that when betting on them, the winnings will be relatively modest. On underdogs, the odds can exceed 4.00-6.00, which makes the bet potentially more profitable.
- The favorite has a higher probability of winning, but one failure can nullify the result of even several successful bets. Outsiders lose more often, but with a competent selection of events, even one accurate forecast can cover a series of mistakes.
- Gaming strategy. Favorites are more often included in express bets, catch-ups and live bets on a goal. Outsiders are often worked with pointwise, in single bets, and only after analyzing the current situation – form, composition, motivation and external factors.
- Psychology of opponents. Favorites do not always go to the match with maximum motivation, especially in a tight schedule. Outsiders often play more aggressively against strong teams – this is a chance to show results and earn points.
- Analysis of form. The victories of favorites seem obvious, but often hide problems – fatigue, underestimation of the opponent or internal conflicts. Outsiders may not have stability, but at a certain moment they can play a match above their average.
Each of these points is important, especially with regular bets. A successful strategy is based on an accurate assessment of the odds and an understanding of how the bookmaker’s line works.
How to choose the right approach
Choosing between betting on a favorite and an underdog should not be intuitive. You need to consider the form of the teams, tournament motivation, style of play and freshness of the squad. You can’t bet only on the name of the team – this is a common mistake for beginners.
Favorites are suitable for those who prefer stability and consistency. At the same time, you need to understand that even top clubs lose, especially at the end of the season, after away games or in matches with an already decided tournament outcome. Underdogs are the choice for those who are looking for high returns and are ready to take risks. Here, it is important not to chase the odds, but to assess the real chances of success.
A balanced approach shows the best results, in which favorites and underdogs are used in different strategies. The main thing is not to overestimate the reliability of some and not to ignore the capabilities of others.
