The “Score in 20 Minutes” market in football betting is a time-based goal prediction — it lets you bet on whether a goal will be scored within the first 20 minutes of a match.
This market is often displayed as:
- Goal in First 20 Minutes – Yes/No
or - Team to Score in First 20 Minutes
It’s a popular live and pre-match bet because it offers quick results and suits matches where you expect early attacking play.
How It Works
- You pick whether a goal will be scored before the 20th minute of the match.
- If any team scores before 20:00, your bet wins.
- If the first goal comes after 20:00 or the match is 0–0 by that time, your bet loses.
Some bookmakers also allow team-specific bets like:
- Arsenal to Score in First 20 Minutes – Yes/No
- Liverpool to Score in First 20 Minutes – Yes/No
Example Using Teams
Let’s use Manchester City vs Aston Villa as an example:
Option 1: Goal in First 20 Minutes – Yes
- You bet ₦5,000 that a goal will be scored in the first 20 minutes.
- Odds: 2.10
- If City scores in the 12th minute → You win ₦10,500 (₦5,000 × 2.10)
- If no goal by 20:00 → You lose your stake.
Option 2: Manchester City to Score in First 20 Minutes – Yes
- Odds: 2.75
- If Haaland scores in the 14th minute → Win
- If Aston Villa scores first in the 10th minute → Lose (because it wasn’t City).
When to Bet on “Score in 20 Minutes”
Choose matches where:
- Both teams are attack-minded.
- There’s a big attacking favorite (like Manchester City, Bayern Munich, or Real Madrid).
- Defenders or goalkeepers are out injured.
- Teams tend to score early goals based on stats (check average goal times).
Example Matches That Suit This Bet
| Match | Why it’s a Good Pick |
|---|---|
| Man City vs Luton Town | City start fast, strong attack |
| Bayern Munich vs Bochum | Bayern often score within 15 minutes |
| Liverpool vs Fulham | High tempo, attacking play |
| PSG vs Reims | PSG’s fast buildup, early pressure |
Betting Tips
- Check Team Form: Teams that dominate early tend to score fast (City, Bayern, Real Madrid).
- Analyze Recent Matches: See if either side scored or conceded in the first 20 minutes recently.
- Use Live Betting: If you notice strong attacking pressure early (shots, corners), you can bet live before 10–15 minutes.
- Avoid Defensive Teams: Games between defensive sides (like Crystal Palace vs Burnley) are risky for early goals.
- Weather & Pitch Conditions: Heavy rain or poor pitch can delay goal chances.
Example Betting Slip
| Market | Selection | Odds | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goal in First 20 Minutes | Yes (Man City vs Villa) | 2.10 | Win |
| Man City to Score in 20 Minutes | Yes | 2.75 | Win |
| Total Goals in First 20 Minutes | Over 0.5 | 2.10 | Win |
Summary
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Market | Score in 20 Minutes |
| Winning Condition | A goal scored before 20:00 |
| Type | Time-based market |
| Best Teams | High-scoring, fast-starting sides |
| Betting Style | Quick profit or live betting option |