What is Live In-Game Betting?
Live in-game betting, also known as live betting or in-play betting, is the process of placing bets on a game or event after it has already started. The odds are updated in real-time as the action unfolds, allowing you to react to what you're seeing on the field, court, or ice. This dynamic form of betting has become incredibly popular with the rise of mobile sports betting.
Basic Rules and Format
The basic rules of live betting are the same as pre-game betting, but the odds are constantly changing. For example, if a football team that was a big favorite before the game falls behind early, their live moneyline odds will become much more favorable. You can bet on all the standard bet types, such as the moneyline, point spread, and totals, as well as a variety of prop bets.
The format of live betting is fast-paced. You need to be able to make quick decisions and get your bets in before the odds change. Most sportsbook apps have a dedicated live betting section where you can see all the games that are currently in progress.
Types of Bets Available
Live betting offers a wide range of betting opportunities, including:
- Live Moneyline: Betting on which team will win the game.
- Live Point Spread: Betting on the margin of victory, with the spread adjusted based on the current score.
- Live Totals: Betting on the total number of points scored, with the line adjusted based on the current score and pace of play.
- Next Score: Betting on which team will score next.
- Player Props: Betting on a player to achieve a certain statistic, such as the next player to score a touchdown.
Step-by-Step Guide to Live In-Game Betting
- Find the live betting section: Open your sportsbook app and navigate to the live or in-play section.
- Select a game: Choose a game that is currently in progress.
- Monitor the odds: Watch the game and keep an eye on the live odds as they change.
- Identify a good opportunity: When you see a bet you like at favorable odds, add it to your bet slip.
- Place your bet quickly: Live odds can change in an instant, so you need to be quick to get your bet in.
- Confirm your bet: Review your bet and confirm it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Chasing your losses: If you lose a live bet, don't immediately try to win your money back with another impulsive bet.
- Betting without watching the game: It's difficult to make informed live bets without actually watching the game and having a feel for the flow of the action.
- Getting caught up in the excitement: The fast-paced nature of live betting can be exciting, but it can also lead to poor decision-making. Stay disciplined and stick to your betting strategy.
Tips for Beginners
- Start with small bets: Live betting can be volatile, so it's a good idea to start with small wagers until you get the hang of it.
- Have a pre-game plan: Before the game starts, have an idea of what you're looking for in the live betting market. For example, you might be waiting for a certain team's odds to reach a certain point before you bet on them.
- Look for momentum swings: Live betting is all about capitalizing on momentum swings. If you can identify a team that is starting to take control of a game, you can often find good value in the live betting market.