Odd/Even Goals Betting Explained: How the Market Works
Odd/Even goals betting predicts whether the combined total number of goals scored by both teams in a match is an odd or even number. A 0-0 draw counts as even, because zero is mathematically an even number.
What Is the Odd/Even Goals Market?
This market asks one simple question: is the total number of goals in a match (both teams combined) odd or even? For example, 2-1 totals 3 goals, which is odd, while 1-1 totals 2 goals, which is even. It is settled on 90 minutes plus stoppage time only.
The Key Rule: 0-0 Counts as Even
Many beginners assume a goalless draw doesn't count. Mathematically, zero is an even number. Under the cited sportsbook rules, a 0-0 result is settled as Even — always check the specific sportsbook's official market rules. This matters because it means every even-scored draw (0-0, 1-1, 2-2) favors the 'Even' side.
Why It Looks Like a Coin Flip
Conceptually, Odd/Even looks close to a 50/50 chance, and bookmakers typically price both sides close together (often around 1.90 each way). For example, a match with 2 total goals is an Even result. This is not a guaranteed edge, just an explanation of why the split isn't exactly 50/50 once the bookmaker's margin is applied.
How It Differs From Over/Under
Odd/Even looks at the shape of the number (odd or even), while Over/Under — see Over/Under Advanced: Quarter Lines 2.25 & 2.75 Explained — looks at whether the total goals is above or below a set line such as 2.5. Both relate to total goals but measure different things; some bettors find Odd/Even keeps them engaged longer since any single goal can flip the outcome until the final whistle.
- 0-0 → 0 goals → Even
- 1-0 or 0-1 → 1 goal → Odd
- 1-1 → 2 goals → Even
- 2-1 or 1-2 → 3 goals → Odd
- 2-2 → 4 goals → Even
Common Mistakes
- Assuming 0-0 doesn't count or gets voided — always confirm the platform's rule.
- Assuming it's a perfect 50/50 market with no bookmaker margin.
- Using it in large parlays without accounting for how one late goal can flip the result.
A Responsible Reminder
Odd/Even remains a high-luck market even though it's simple to understand. See Responsible Gambling: A Practical Guide & Where to Get Help in Malaysia and 6 Common Beginner Mistakes & Money Management Principles before making it part of any betting slip.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- Does 0-0 count as odd or even?
- Even. Zero is mathematically an even number, so a 0-0 result wins the 'Even' side on most mainstream platforms.
- Does extra time count toward this market?
- Not in most standard markets — only the 90 minutes plus stoppage time count unless the platform states otherwise.
- How is Odd/Even different from Over/Under goals?
- Odd/Even looks at whether the total goals is an odd or even number, while Over/Under looks at whether the total goals is above or below a specific line such as 2.5.