What Does “2nd Goal” Mean in Football Betting?
The “2nd Goal” market simply means betting on which team will score the second goal in a match.
You can usually choose between:
- Home Team – the home team scores the second goal.
- Away Team – the away team scores the second goal.
- No 2nd Goal – if the match ends 0–0 or only one goal is scored.
This type of bet is very popular for in-play (live) betting, as it depends on the flow and momentum of the match.
Example of 2nd Goal Betting
Let’s take a Premier League match:
Arsenal vs. Chelsea
- First goal: Arsenal scores in the 15th minute (Arsenal 1–0 Chelsea).
- The 2nd Goal Market now resets. You can bet on:
- Arsenal to score 2nd (odds 2.10)
- Chelsea to score 2nd (odds 1.80)
- No 2nd Goal (odds 7.00)
If Chelsea equalizes in the 40th minute, anyone who bet on Chelsea to score the 2nd goal wins.
Winning Bet: Chelsea to score 2nd.
Losing Bets: Arsenal to score 2nd, No 2nd Goal.
What Does “1X2” Mean in Football Betting?
The 1X2 market is the standard match result bet where you pick the outcome of a match:
- 1 = Home Win
- X = Draw
- 2 = Away Win
It covers the full-time (90 minutes + added time) result only — not extra time or penalties.
Example of 1X2 Betting
Match: Arsenal vs. Chelsea
- 1 (Arsenal Win) – odds 2.20
- X (Draw) – odds 3.30
- 2 (Chelsea Win) – odds 3.10
If the final score is Arsenal 2–1 Chelsea,
Winning Bet: 1 (Arsenal Win)
If the final score is 1–1,
Winning Bet: X (Draw)
If the final score is 1–2,
Winning Bet: 2 (Chelsea Win)
How “2nd Goal” & “1X2” Work Together
Some sportsbooks combine both markets in special combo bets, such as:
- “Which team will score the 2nd goal and win the match?”
- Example options:
- Arsenal to score 2nd & win
- Chelsea to score 2nd & win
- No 2nd goal & draw
These combined bets usually offer higher odds but carry higher risk, as you need both conditions to be true.
Betting Tips for “2nd Goal & 1X2” Markets
- Watch the Game Live
The “2nd Goal” market is ideal for live betting. Observe which team controls possession or creates chances. - Use Team Form & Momentum
Teams that respond strongly after conceding (like Chelsea or Bayern Munich) are great picks to score the 2nd goal after going behind. - Consider Substitutions & Fatigue
Fresh attackers coming on around the 60th–70th minute can change the game — a good time to back them for the next goal. - Avoid Early Bets
Wait until the first goal is scored before betting on the 2nd goal market; this allows you to judge team reactions. - Combine Smartly with 1X2
If you believe a strong home side will win and dominate, betting on them to score the 2nd goal and win can give better odds than a straight “Home Win”.
Example Betting Scenario
Match: Manchester City vs. Liverpool
- 1st Goal: Liverpool (10′)
- Live Odds after goal:
- Man City to score 2nd: 1.75
- Liverpool to score 2nd: 2.30
- No 2nd Goal: 8.00
You believe City will fight back.
Bet: Man City to score 2nd & Win (odds 3.20)
Final Score: Man City 3–1 Liverpool
City scored 2nd and won the match → Bet wins.
Key Takeaway
| Market | Description | Best Time to Bet | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Goal | Team to score the second goal | During live play | Watch momentum & player form |
| 1X2 | Match result (Win/Draw/Lose) | Before kick-off or live | Analyze team strength & tactics |
| Combo (2nd Goal + 1X2) | Who scores 2nd & wins | After first goal | Combine goal timing & match control |
Final Betting Tip
Always manage your bankroll wisely. “2nd Goal” bets are exciting but unpredictable — use small stakes or combine with safer 1X2 bets for balance.