What Does “Own Goal” Mean in Football Betting?
An own goal happens when a player accidentally scores into his own net, giving the opposing team the goal.
- In betting, you can wager whether there will be an own goal in the match (Yes/No).
- Some bookmakers also offer which team will score an own goal.
Example:
- Manchester United vs Chelsea
- Market: Will there be an own goal?
- Options: Yes (5.50 odds) / No (1.15 odds)
If a Chelsea defender accidentally scores against his goalkeeper, then the Yes bet wins.
Example with Teams
Imagine a match:
- Liverpool vs Tottenham
- You place a bet on “Own Goal – Yes”.
Scenario:
- In the 38th minute, a Tottenham defender misjudges a cross and heads the ball into his own net.
Your bet wins, regardless of the final score.
If the match finishes without an own goal, then the bet loses.
Things to Know
- Own Goals Count:
- They are added to the scoreline and credited to the opposing team.
- Example: If Arsenal defender scores an own goal vs Man City, the scoreboard reads Man City 1–0 Arsenal.
- Exclusions:
- If the ball deflects slightly off a defender but the attacker’s shot was on target, it is not classed as an own goal.
- The goal remains with the attacker.
- Odds Are Usually High:
- Because own goals are rare events, odds for “Yes” are often between 5.00 – 12.00 depending on the teams.
Betting Tips for Own Goal Markets
- Focus on Defensive Styles:
- Teams under pressure (weak defenses, poor communication with the goalkeeper) are more likely to concede own goals.
- Example: A low-ranked Premier League team defending all game vs Man City may have a higher risk of mistakes.
- Look at Playing Conditions:
- Bad weather (rain, slippery pitches) increases chances of defensive errors and misjudged back passes.
- Derby Matches / High-Pressure Games:
- In tense games (like Arsenal vs Tottenham), defenders often make rushed clearances, leading to mistakes.
- Teams That Face Many Crosses or Set Pieces:
- Clubs that allow lots of corners and crosses into the box (like Burnley, Sheffield United in recent seasons) face higher own-goal risks.
- Live Betting Angle:
- If one team is dominating possession and peppering the box with crosses, betting “Own Goal – Yes” live could give value.
Quick Example Bet:
- Barcelona vs Getafe
- Market: “Own Goal in Match – Yes” @ 8.00
- Barcelona keeps attacking with 25+ crosses into the box.
- Getafe defender accidentally deflects a ball past his keeper.
Bet Wins.
Would you like me to also explain the difference between betting on “Any Own Goal” and “Own Goal by Team 1/Team 2”, since some bookies offer both?
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