How to Read Football Odds
Odds look confusing until you know what they are saying. In simple terms, odds show how likely the bookmaker thinks an outcome is, and how much you would receive if it happens.
Fractional and decimal odds
UK bookmakers usually show fractional odds, such as 5/2. This means that for every £2 you stake, you receive £5 in profit, plus your stake back. Decimal odds show the same thing as a single number. Odds of 3.50 return £3.50 for every £1 staked, which includes your original stake.
What the numbers imply
Every set of odds suggests a chance. Decimal odds of 2.00 imply a 50% chance, because 1 divided by 2 is 0.5. Odds of 4.00 imply a 25% chance. The shorter the odds, the more likely the bookmaker believes the outcome is.
The bookmaker's margin
If you add up the implied chances for every outcome in a match, the total is usually more than 100%. The extra is the bookmaker's margin. It is one reason why no bet is ever certain, however confident you feel.
Before you bet
- Check whether the price is shown as fractional or decimal.
- Work out your possible return before you stake.
- Only stake an amount you are comfortable losing.
Our team can talk you through how odds work for your own situation. Betting always carries risk, and 18+ applies. If gambling stops being fun, visit BeGambleAware.org.