What Does Over 5.5 Bookings Mean?

Over 5.5 Bookings is a football betting market where you predict that the match will produce 6 or more total bookings.

How Bookings Are Counted

Most bookmakers typically use:

• 1 yellow card = 1 booking point
• 1 red card = 2 booking points
• (Sometimes: max 1 card per player unless red is separate — depends on bookmaker)

But in many markets, “Over 5.5 bookings” simply means 6 total cards, regardless of points system.
Always check the rule of your bookmaker.

How Over 5.5 Bookings Works

Your bet wins if the match ends with:

6+ bookings

Your bet loses if the match ends with:

5 or fewer bookings

Team-Based Example: Chelsea vs Atlético Madrid

Let’s imagine a Champions League game between Chelsea and Atlético Madrid, two teams with historically high-card averages.

Scenario Example

• Chelsea players receive:
  • 3 yellow cards
• Atlético players receive:
  • 2 yellow cards
  • 1 red card

Card Count

• Chelsea: 3 cards
• Atlético: 3 cards (2 yellows + 1 red = 3)

Total Bookings = 6

Your Over 5.5 Bookings bet WINS.

Another Example (Losing Scenario)

Match: Juventus vs AC Milan

• Juventus: 2 yellows
• Milan: 2 yellows
• Total cards = 4

Your Over 5.5 Bookings bet LOSES because there are not 6 cards.

Why Bettors Choose Over 5.5 Bookings

This market is popular in matches that are:

• Derbies / Rivalries (intense games)
• Champions League knockout matches
• Title-deciders
• Relegation fights
• Games with strict referees

These situations often produce more fouls, tension, and cards.

Teams Known for High Booking Counts

Teams with aggressive play styles or physical approaches often hit high booking lines, such as:

Examples of High-Card Teams

• Atlético Madrid
• Getafe
• Leeds United
• Roma
• Juventus
• Crystal Palace
• Wolves
• Valencia

Best Matchups for Over 5.5 Cards

You should strongly consider Over 5.5 bookings when:

1. Both teams have physical defenders & ball-winning midfielders

Example:
Chelsea vs Atlético Madrid, Juventus vs Inter, Barcelona vs Real Madrid

2. Game has strong rivalry

• Manchester United vs Liverpool
• Inter vs AC Milan
• Fenerbahçe vs Galatasaray

3. Referee is known for many cards

Some referees average 5–7 cards per match — this greatly boosts the chances.

4. High-stakes situation

• Finals
• Second-leg knockout matches
• Relegation battles

Practical Examples with Referees

Match: Real Madrid vs Barcelona

Referee: Mateu Lahoz (high-card ref)

Typical outcome:

• 7–10 cards

Great for Over 5.5 Bookings.

Betting Tips for Over 5.5 Cards

1. Check Both Teams’ Card Averages

Look at:

• Last 5 matches
• Season averages
• Derby or rivalry history

If both teams average 2–3 cards per match, Over 5.5 becomes strong.

2. Research the Referee

Referees decide the match’s temperament.

Look for referees who:

• Give fouls easily
• Book players early
• Are strict in derbies

Examples:
Lahoz, Michael Oliver, Daniele Orsato (high card tendencies).

3. High-Intensity Matches = High Cards

Games with:

• Defensive pressure
• High press
• Fast wingers
• Tactical fouling

These increase card chances.

4. Weather Conditions Matter

• Rainy games → more mistimed tackles → more bookings.

5. Player Profiles

Teams with:

• Aggressive defenders
• Hot-tempered midfielders
• Speedy attackers (who draw fouls)

…often produce more cards.

When to Avoid Over 5.5 Bookings

Avoid if:

• Both teams are tactical/possession-oriented (e.g., Man City, Bayern)
• Referee is known to “let the game flow”
• Friendly matches
• Early-season games
• No rivalry or pressure

Final Summary