Football betting holds so many uncertainties. When you place an over/under goals bet or a both teams to score (BTTS) bet, you never know if it will pan out. A team’s defense could be solid, resulting in the team you bet on not scoring enough goals to satisfy your bet. VAR may deem one team’s sole goal in a fixture invalid, throwing off both teams to score (BTTS) bet.
One of the best ways to minimize risk and enhance strategy in football betting is by hedging bets. Whether you need to protect potential winnings or cut your losses early, hedging your bets can give you that necessary protection. Don’t forget to examine football odds before hedging a bet so you can make the most informed data-driven decisions.
What Is Hedging In Football Betting?
Hedging relates to placing additional bets to increase the chances of profitability or to reduce potential losses. This betting activity is most effective when:
- Your bet is successful, but you want to lock in that profitability.
- You are uncertain of the match outcome and want to minimize the risk of losing all your funds.
- Odds shift in your favor, allowing you to bet on the opposite outcome of your original bet.
When Should You Hedge a Football Bet?
Hedging a football bet is best done during the following scenarios:
- Before a match begins. If the odds shift significantly after your initial bet, you can place another bet before kickoff to secure the utmost value.
- During live betting. If the team you bet on is experiencing pressure from their opponent, hedging bets could be more strategic.
- When betting with parlays. If the final selection within a parlay is close to winning, hedging the bet can make these chances more secure.
Key Strategies to Hedge a Football Bet
Following the best strategies for hedging football bets can help you stay ahead during upcoming fixtures.
Pre-Match Hedging with Line Movements
If your initial bet changes in favor of the opposite outcome, making the alternative bet can enhance your potential winning chances. Hence, regularly examining football odds throughout the fixture for the bet you placed is essential for spotting a hedging opportunity.
For example, you may bet on Arsenal FC to win by wagering £100 at 2.50 odds. If you see the odds decrease to 2.00, then you may wager £125 on Arsenal FC losing or experiencing a draw to cut your losses from the initial bet that went south. Hence, if the initial bet pans out, then it will bring in profits. However, if the initial bet doesn’t work out, at least your hedged bet will cover some of the losses.
In-Play Hedging for Live Betting Protection
Live betting is more effective when hedging in football because you can react to in-game developments right as they occur. Let’s say that you bet on Liverpool to win at 2.00 odds with a £100 wager. If the team is losing momentum in the middle of the game, and it’s clear the fixture will end in a draw at 3.50 odds, you may wager £50 on this bet for effective hedging.
Hedging Parlays for Accumulator Protection
Whether you have 2 to 4 or more selections on a parlay bet, if you are waiting on the last leg to be successful, hedging that bet can be beneficial. For example, if your final leg out of 4 selections is waiting on Manchester City to win a fixture, you may place a hedged bet that the team will not win to effectively hedge your bet.
