Many football fans know the popular markets, but “Both Teams to Score,” often shortened to BTTS, might still feel a bit unclear. You’ll find it on most football coupons, and once you get the gist, it becomes quite straightforward.
This blog post walks through what BTTS is about, how it’s settled, and the key details to keep in mind. You’ll also see the main variations, how it interacts with match outcomes, and answers to common questions.
Read on to learn more.
What Does BTTS Mean in Betting?
BTTS stands for “Both Teams to Score.” Essentially, it concerns whether each side manages to find the net at least once during the main part of a football match.
You’re not focused on who wins here—just whether both teams manage to score. If you’re backing “Yes,” you’re backing that both teams will get on the scoresheet. If “No,” you’re anticipating that at least one team won’t score.
A match ending 2-1 would settle a “Yes” bet positively, whereas a 0-0 finish would go the other way.
How Does a Both Teams to Score Bet Work?
This bet is all about goals—specifically, whether both sides score during the standard match duration, including injury time but excluding any extra periods.
If you’re opting for “Yes,” any scoreline where both teams have found the net at least once counts, such as 1-1 or 3-1. If choosing “No,” outcomes where one or both teams don’t score, like 1-0 or 0-0, apply.
You’ll often see BTTS alongside other main betting options. It can be placed solo or combined with other bets.
Understanding the details of how these bets are settled can be helpful when considering different situations.
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BTTS Betting Rules Explained
BTTS bets are decided based on goals scored in regular time and injury time. Goals in extra time or penalty shoot-outs don’t usually count unless a specific market says otherwise.
If a goal is credited to a team—own goals included—it counts towards BTTS. But if a goal is disallowed, for example, due to offside or a VAR decision, it’s not counted.
Should a match be abandoned before it’s finished, many bookmakers cancel BTTS bets and return stakes, though rules might differ, so it’s good to check before placing your wager.
Knowing these rules helps when comparing the different BTTS markets available.
Different Types of BTTS Markets
BTTS and Match Result
This market combines two elements: both teams scoring and the final result of the match.
For example, a “BTTS and Home Win” bet wins only if both sides score and the home team comes out on top by the end of regular time and injury time.
Because you’re predicting two things, odds tend to be higher compared to standard BTTS bets. You’ll usually find this market with other match specials.
If you’re more interested in specific periods, half-time BTTS markets might appeal.
BTTS in the First Half or Second Half
Here, the focus shifts to whether both teams manage to score during one half of the game, including that half’s injury time but excluding any extra time.
For example, “BTTS in the Second Half” wins if both teams score after the break, no matter what happened in the first half.
Odds for half-specific bets often differ from the full match market since there’s less time for goals to occur.
Is BTTS a Good Bet?
BTTS might suit those interested more in the flow of the match rather than predicting the winner. It concentrates on whether both sides will get on the scoresheet.
The prices reflect factors like recent scoring trends, defensive setups, any key absences, and tactical approaches. Some people look at how often both teams have scored in previous matches to inform their choices.
No outcome is guaranteed, so it’s about how you interpret the information and the limits you decide on.
Tips for Understanding BTTS Odds
Odds on BTTS give an idea of how likely it is thought that both teams will score. Lower odds suggest a higher chance, while higher odds imply a less likely outcome.
You might see odds in different formats—for instance, fractional odds like 4/5, or decimal odds like 1.80—but they both represent the same potential returns.
Odds can shift as new information comes out or as betting trends change. Comparing prices from different bookmakers can help find better options. Also, looking at stats like recent goals and shots on target adds context.
Common Questions About BTTS Betting
Do Own Goals Count Towards BTTS?
Yes, own goals are included and count for the team that is awarded the goal.
Are Extra Time and Penalties Included?
No, BTTS bets are usually settled based only on the regular 90 minutes plus any injury time, excluding extra time and penalties.
What Happens If a Match Is Abandoned?
In most cases, BTTS bets are voided and stakes returned if a match doesn’t reach full time, unless the bookmaker’s rules specify otherwise.
Can BTTS Be Combined With Other Bets?
Yes, it’s quite common for BTTS selections to be combined with other bets in multiples or accumulators.
Does a 0-0 Result Affect BTTS?
If neither team scores during the match, the “Yes” option for BTTS will not be successful.
Where Is the BTTS Market Found?
You will usually find BTTS listed within the football or match betting sections on betting sites.
