In ice hockey betting, “Under 3.5” refers to a total goals market. This means you are betting that the total number of goals scored by both teams combined in a match will be 3 or fewer.
Breakdown:
- If the total number of goals is 0, 1, 2, or 3 → Your bet wins
- If the total number of goals is 4 or more → Your bet loses
Example:
Let’s say:
- Final score: 2-1 → Total = 3 goals → Bet wins
- Final score: 1-1 → Total = 2 goals → Bet wins
- Final score: 2-2 → Total = 4 goals → Bet loses
- Final score: 0-4 → Total = 4 goals → Bet loses
When to bet on “Under 3.5” in Ice Hockey
Use “Under 3.5” when:
- Both teams are defensively strong (tight systems, low scoring games).
- Goalies are in top form (especially in NHL or top European leagues).
- It’s a playoff game or a high-stakes match where teams play more cautiously.
- Historical matchups between the two teams show low-scoring trends.
- Injuries to key attackers or lack of top offensive players.
Betting Tips for “Under 3.5” in Ice Hockey:
- Research Teams’ Scoring Patterns
→ Look at the average goals per game for both teams over the last 5–10 games. - Check Head-to-Head History
→ If they often play low-scoring games against each other, this is a good sign. - Goalkeeper Form is Key
→ Strong goaltending reduces scoring chances significantly. - Avoid Overbetting in Open Matches
→ If teams play fast, open, or aggressive styles (like many NHL teams), avoid Under bets. - Consider In-Play Betting
→ If the game is 0-0 or 1-0 after the 1st period, odds for Under 3.5 might still be valuable. - Weather and Venue (for outdoor games)
→ Poor ice or outdoor conditions can slow down play and reduce goals.
Leagues Where “Under 3.5” Can Work Well:
- Swedish Hockey League (SHL)
- Finnish Liiga
- KHL (Kontinental Hockey League)
- Some NHL playoff games
These leagues often feature strong defenses and disciplined play.
Avoid “Under 3.5″ When:
- Teams have high-scoring forwards or weak defense.
- It’s an exhibition or All-Star game.
- There’s nothing to play for (teams may play freely with little discipline).
- Live odds are poor value due to early goals.
Summary
“Under 3.5” = A bet that the game ends with 0 to 3 total goals.
It’s a low-risk, low-reward type of bet suited to defensively structured matchups.
If you’d like, I can also provide today’s best games for Under 3.5 based on current matchups – just ask!