Match result (1X2) betting explained
In a match result bet (1X2) you predict the outcome at the end of normal time: home win (1), draw (X) or away win (2). It is the most popular football market there is.
The three outcomes
| Bet | Meaning | Winning scores |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Home win | 1-0, 2-1, 3-2 |
| X | Draw | 0-0, 1-1, 2-2 |
| 2 | Away win | 0-1, 1-3 |
The home team is always listed first: in «Arsenal v Chelsea», 1 means an Arsenal win.
Decimal and fractional odds
UK bookmakers often show fractional odds. Convert them by dividing and adding one: 6/4 = 1.5 + 1 = 2.50. Evens (1/1) is 2.00, 4/6 is about 1.67.
Worked example
Prices: home 2.10 · draw 3.40 · away 3.50. You put £10 on the draw. If it ends 1-1, you get £34 back. Any other result loses the stake.
The bookmaker’s margin
Turn each price into a probability (1 ÷ odds): 47.6% + 29.4% + 28.6% = 105.6%. The 5.6 points above 100% are the bookmaker’s margin, or overround. The lower it is, the better the prices for you.
When to back the draw
The draw is often underrated. It becomes more likely between evenly matched, cautious teams, late in the season when a point suits both sides, and in tight derbies.
Tips
- Compare prices across several bookmakers – an extra 0.10 adds up over a season.
- Avoid odds below 1.40 on favourites: one upset wipes out several wins.
- Hedge with double chance or the Asian handicap when you’re unsure.
Where to place this bet
- 1LeoVegas8.5/ 10Sports welcome offerUKGC licensed United Kingdom Best app
- 2Matchbook8.4/ 10Sports welcome offerUKGC licensed United Kingdom Exchange
- 3BetMaze7.8/ 10Sports welcome offerUKGC licensed United Kingdom
FAQ
What does X mean in betting?
X means a draw. The bet wins if the scores are level at the end of normal time, including stoppage time.
Does extra time count?
No. Match result bets are settled on the score after 90 minutes plus stoppage time.
How do I work out my return?
Return = stake × decimal odds. £10 at 2.50 returns £25, which is £15 profit. Fractional 6/4 is the same as 2.50 decimal.