Football betting offers a wide range of exciting markets, and one of the most popular among punters is the First Goal Scorer bet. This betting option allows you to predict which player will score the first goal in a football match. It’s a thrilling market that combines football knowledge, player form, and a bit of luck — making it perfect for fans who follow specific players or teams closely.
What Does “First Goal Scorer” Mean in Football Betting?
The First Goal Scorer market simply means you are betting on the player who will score the first goal in a match.
If your chosen player scores the opening goal, your bet wins.
If the player scores later in the game (but not first), or doesn’t score at all, your bet loses.
Example:
Let’s take a Premier League match:
Match: Arsenal vs Chelsea
Market: First Goal Scorer
- You place a bet on Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) to be the First Goal Scorer.
- If Saka scores the first goal of the match — you win the bet.
- If another player, say Raheem Sterling (Chelsea), scores first, then your bet loses even if Saka scores later.
Variations of First Goal Scorer Bets
- First Goal Scorer (Main Market):
Bet on who scores the first goal in the entire match. - First Team Goal Scorer:
Predict which player will score the first goal for their team (not necessarily the first goal of the match). - No Goal Option:
If the game ends 0–0, most bookies will refund the stake if you select the “No Goal Scorer” option.
Betting Strategy & Tips for First Goal Scorer Market
Here are key betting tips to help you make smarter predictions:
1. Analyze Player Form
- Focus on players who are currently scoring regularly.
- Example: Erling Haaland (Man City) or Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) are frequent first scorers because of their attacking roles.
2. Consider Team Tactics
- Teams that start fast and attack early (like Manchester City or Arsenal) are more likely to produce early goals from key forwards.
- Defensive teams often concede first, so betting against them can be strategic.
3. Check Set-Piece Takers
- Players who take penalties or free kicks (e.g., Bruno Fernandes, James Ward-Prowse) have a higher chance of scoring first.
4. Study Opponent’s Defense
- Weak defenses or teams that concede early goals frequently increase the chances of your selected striker scoring first.
5. Use Statistics
- Look at First Goal Scorer Stats for recent matches.
- Many sportsbooks and football analytics sites provide this data for top leagues.
Example of Odds and Potential Winnings
| Player | Odds | Stake | Potential Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erling Haaland | 3.50 | ₦1,000 | ₦3,500 |
| Bukayo Saka | 6.00 | ₦1,000 | ₦6,000 |
| Raheem Sterling | 8.00 | ₦1,000 | ₦8,000 |
The higher the odds, the lower the likelihood — but the payout can be massive if your pick scores first.
Example Scenario
Match: Liverpool vs Manchester United
Your Bet: Mohamed Salah to score first
- If Salah scores the opening goal — you win.
- If Marcus Rashford scores first — you lose.
- If the match ends 0–0 — you lose (unless your bookmaker refunds for no goal).
Betting Tip Summary
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Pick main strikers | They usually have the highest chance of scoring first. |
| Check current form | Choose players who scored recently. |
| Research stats | Review head-to-head and scoring trends. |
| Bet early | Odds usually drop as the match approaches. |
| Avoid defenders | Defenders rarely score first unless they take set pieces. |
Final Thoughts
The First Goal Scorer market in football betting is one of the most exciting and high-reward options for punters. With good research, team knowledge, and player analysis, you can turn this market into a profitable strategy.