What is “Total Cards Over/Under” in Football Betting?
“Total Cards Over/Under” betting is when you predict whether the total number of yellow and red cards shown in a match will be over or under a given line set by the bookmaker.
It’s similar to Over/Under goals betting, but instead of goals — you’re betting on disciplinary actions (cards).
How Bookmakers Calculate Cards
There are two main methods depending on the bookmaker:
1. Card Count (Number of Cards)
- Yellow card = 1
- Red card = 1
- Example: If a player gets two yellows (which lead to a red), it counts as 2 cards total, not 3.
2. Card Points System
- Yellow card = 10 points
- Red card = 25 points
- Maximum per player = 35 points (if yellow + red in one match)
Bookmakers will then offer odds like:
- Over 3.5 cards
- Under 3.5 cards
or - Over 40.5 card points
- Under 40.5 card points
Example with a Team: Manchester United vs Chelsea
Let’s say the bookmaker offers this line:
Total Cards Over/Under 4.5
You are betting on how many cards will be shown in total (to both teams combined).
Example 1 — Match Scenario:
- Manchester United receive 3 yellow cards.
- Chelsea receive 2 yellow cards and 1 red card.
Total = 6 cards
Result:
If you bet Over 4.5, you win.
If you bet Under 4.5, you lose.
Another Example (Card Points)
Line: Over/Under 45.5 card points
Match outcome:
- United: 2 yellow cards (2 × 10 = 20 points)
- Chelsea: 1 yellow, 1 red (10 + 25 = 35 points)
Total = 55 points
Result:
- Over 45.5 Wins
- Under 45.5 Loses
Betting Tips & Strategy
1. Check the Referee Stats
Referees vary widely in how strict they are.
Example:
- Mike Dean (retired) averaged 4–6 cards per game, ideal for Over bets.
- Michael Oliver might give 2–3 cards, better for Under bets.
Use sites like WhoScored or FlashScore to check referee averages.
2. Derby or High-Tension Matches
Games like:
- Barcelona vs Real Madrid
- Arsenal vs Tottenham
- AC Milan vs Inter Milan
Tend to be aggressive — more fouls, more cards.
Great for Over cards bets.
3. Team Play Style
Some teams are naturally aggressive or foul often.
| Team | Style | Average Cards | Best Bet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atletico Madrid | Physical | 4.5+ per game | Over |
| Manchester City | Possession-based | 1.5 per game | Under |
| Leeds United | Pressing team | 3.5+ per game | Over |
4. Match Importance
- Cup finals or relegation battles = more tension = likely more cards.
- End-of-season dead rubbers = relaxed = fewer cards.
5. Bet Type Variation
You can also bet:
- Total Cards per Team (e.g., Arsenal Over 2.5 cards)
- First Team to Receive a Card
- Time of First Card (e.g., Before 30:00)
Example Bet Slip
| Match | Market | Selection | Odds | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Man Utd vs Chelsea | Total Cards | Over 4.5 | 1.80 | Win |
| Arsenal vs Spurs | Arsenal Cards | Over 2.5 | 1.95 | Win |
| PSG vs Lyon | Total Cards | Under 3.5 | 2.00 | Lose |
Expert Tips Summary
Check referee stats
Look for rivalry or high-stakes games
Research team discipline records
Avoid friendlies or low-stakes games (usually fewer cards)
Combine Over cards bets with BTTS or Over goals in fiery matches for value