Goal Number 1 – Scored by Kicking (Betting Explained)
This betting market means:
You are betting that the first goal of the match (Goal No. 1) will be scored by a kick.
A “kick” can include:
- A shot with the foot
- A tap-in with the foot
- A volley
- A penalty kick
- A free-kick
- A long-range shot
It does NOT include:
- A header
- A hand/arm (illegal anyway)
- Any own goal scored with the head (Depending on the sportsbook rules, own goals may not count as the “first goal scorer type”)
- A goalkeeper throw
- A chest or body deflection unless the finishing touch was by foot
So—You win the bet if the first goal of the match is scored with the foot.
Example With a Team: Manchester City vs Arsenal
Scenario 1 (WIN)
Match: Manchester City vs Arsenal
- 1st goal: Haaland scores with a left-footed shot in the 11th minute.
Since the first goal was scored by kicking,
Your bet wins.
Scenario 2 (LOSE)
Match: Manchester City vs Arsenal
- 1st goal: Gabriel scores with a header from a corner.
First goal was by header,
Your bet loses.
Scenario 3 (WIN – Penalty Kick)
Match: Manchester City vs Arsenal
- 1st goal: Saka scores a penalty in the 7th minute.
A penalty is still scored by kicking,
Your bet wins.
Scenario 4 (Check Rules – Own Goal)
Match: Manchester City vs Arsenal
- 1st goal: Manchester City defender accidentally scores an own goal with his knee.
Sportsbook rules differ:
- Many betting sites exclude own goals from this market.
- This means they will wait for the next valid goal to check if it was a kick.
Always check rules.
Why Bettors Like This Market
- Most goals in football are scored with the foot, so this is a high-probability market.
- Safer than predicting a specific player.
- Good for matches with strong attacking teams.
BETTING TIPS
Bet on Teams That Score Open-Play Goals
Teams like:
- Manchester City
- Arsenal
- Liverpool
- Bayern Munich
- Real Madrid
These teams typically score from passes and shots, not headers.
Avoid Betting in Matches Where First Goals Often Come From Set Pieces
Teams that rely on corners and headers (e.g., Burnley, Atlético Madrid) may reduce your chances.
Check Player Profiles
Teams with tall strikers (e.g., Giroud, Lukaku) increase chances of header goals.
Teams with fast, technical forwards (e.g., Salah, Sterling, Vinícius Jr) often score by kicking.
Penalty-Takers Make This Market Safer
If both teams have penalty threats, the first goal could easily be from the spot (kick).
Live Betting Advantage
Watch the first 5–10 minutes:
- If a team is cutting in and shooting = good for kick goal.
- If there are many corners and crosses = riskier.
Quick Summary
| Situation | Kick? | Bet Result |
|---|---|---|
| Shot with foot | Yes | Win |
| Penalty | Yes | Win |
| Free-kick | Yes | Win |
| Volley | Yes | Win |
| Header | No | Lose |
| Own goal (check rules) | Varies | Depends |
| Deflection off body | If last touch foot = Win | If not foot = Lose |