What the Market Means
- Player shots on goal 3+ = You are betting that a named player will have at least three shots on target in the match.
- (incl. overtime) = If the match goes to extra time (e.g. cup ties), shots on target during the extra periods count as well.
- “Shots on goal/on target” = Attempts that would have gone into the net if not stopped by the goalkeeper or defender on the line.
Important : Bookmakers often differentiate between
- “Shots” (any attempt, blocked, off-target or on-target)
- “Shots on goal” (only on target – saved or scored).
Detailed Example with a Team
Let’s pick Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest in an FA Cup tie.
Suppose you see the market:
- Erling Haaland 3+ shots on goal (incl. overtime) @ 1.90
Here’s how it works:
| Player | Shots on target (90 mins) | Extra time shots on target | Total counted | Bet Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Erling Haaland | 2 | 1 | 3 | Win |
| Julian Álvarez | 1 | 0 | 1 | Lose |
If Haaland registers 2 shots on target in normal time and 1 in extra time = 3 total, your bet wins.
If he only has 2 shots on target total, even if he had 7 attempts overall but most were off target, your bet loses.
Why This Market is Popular
- Great for high-volume shooters (strikers/wingers).
- More specific than just “to score” or “anytime goalscorer.”
- You can still win even if the player doesn’t score (as long as shots on target ≥3).
Key Factors to Consider
Here’s what sharp bettors look at before placing a 3+ shots on goal bet:
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Player role & form | Main striker or attacking midfielder? Do they take many shots per game? |
| Opponent defence | Weak defences concede more shots on target. |
| Possession share | Teams dominating the ball = more shooting chances. |
| Set pieces/penalties | Penalty takers can get an easy shot on target. |
| Lineups & injuries | Check if the player starts and who supports him. |
| Match context | Cup ties often go to extra time → more chance to hit 3+. |
Betting Tips for Player 3+ Shots on Goal
- Tip 1: Use Stats Websites
Check sites like SofaScore, FotMob, FBref to see the player’s average shots on target per game. If Haaland averages 2.8 per game, a 3+ market might be fair. - Tip 2: Look at the opponent
If the opponent concedes a high number of shots on target, it’s easier for your player to hit 3+. - Tip 3: Only bet if he starts
If he’s benched, the chance drops drastically. - Tip 4: Live Bets Can Be Smart
If the player looks very active early, you can bet in-play for 3+ shots on target. - Tip 5: Compare Odds
Different bookies define “shots on goal” slightly differently; always read the rules. - Tip 6: Cup Competitions = Bonus Time
In games likely to go to extra time, a “3+ shots on goal” bet has higher upside because of the extra minutes.
Quick Scenario
- Mo Salah vs. Luton Town. Bookmaker offers Salah 3+ shots on goal @ 2.20.
- Salah averages 2.6 shots on target vs weaker teams. Luton concedes a high number of shots.
- Match goes to extra time. Salah ends with 4 shots on target (2 in normal time, 2 in extra).
Your bet wins easily even if Salah didn’t score.
Would you like me to make you a quick stat table of top European players showing their average shots on target per match so you can see who is worth betting on? (It’s a handy cheat sheet for this market.)