What Is a ‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’ Bet? A Beginner’s Guide to BTTS 2nd Half Betting
Why ‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’ Can Be Confusing
If you’re new to football betting, you’ve probably seen a huge range of bet types and markets. Some are straightforward, like picking the winner of a match. Others, like ‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’ (often called BTTS 2nd Half), can be a bit puzzling at first. You might wonder: How is this different from a regular ‘Both Teams to Score’ bet? What exactly needs to happen for my bet to win? And when does it make sense to choose this option?
Let’s break down this betting term in simple language, using real football examples, so you can decide if it’s a smart choice for you.
What Does ‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’ Mean?
In a ‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’ bet, you are predicting that both teams will score at least one goal each during the second half of the match. It doesn’t matter what happened in the first half—only the goals scored after halftime count for this bet.
If either team fails to score in the second half, your bet loses. If both teams find the net after halftime, your bet wins, no matter what the final score is or who wins the match.
Example Scenario
Let’s say you’re watching a match between Chelsea and Liverpool. You place a ‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’ bet. Here’s how it could play out:
– The first half ends 0-0. No goals yet, but that doesn’t affect your bet.
– In the second half, Chelsea scores in the 55th minute (Chelsea 1-0 Liverpool).
– Later, Liverpool scores in the 80th minute (Chelsea 1-1 Liverpool).
Your bet wins, because both teams scored at least once in the second half. It doesn’t matter that the first half was goalless.
Now, imagine a different scenario:
– First half: Chelsea 1-0 Liverpool.
– Second half: Liverpool scores in the 60th minute (Chelsea 1-1 Liverpool). No other goals.
Your bet loses, because only one team (Liverpool) scored in the second half. Chelsea’s goal in the first half doesn’t count for this bet.
How Is This Different from a Regular ‘Both Teams to Score’ Bet?
A standard ‘Both Teams to Score’ (BTTS) bet covers the full 90 minutes of the match (plus injury time). It doesn’t matter when the goals are scored—just that each team gets at least one.
With ‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’, you’re only interested in what happens after the break. Even if both teams scored in the first half, if they don’t both score in the second, your bet loses.
Key difference: Timing. The BTTS 2nd Half bet is all about the action after halftime.
Why Would Someone Choose This Bet?
There are a few reasons you might pick this market:
1. Better Odds
Because it’s harder for both teams to score in just one half (rather than the full match), the odds are usually higher than a standard BTTS bet. If you think the second half will be lively, this could offer more value.
2. Match Patterns
Some teams are known for slow starts and explosive finishes. If you notice a pattern where both teams tend to score more after halftime, this bet could be a smart play.
3. In-Play Opportunities
You can often place this bet live, during halftime. If the first half was cagey but you expect things to open up, BTTS 2nd Half can be a good option.
When Might This Bet Make Sense?
– Two attacking teams with strong second-half records
– Matches where the first half is often cautious (e.g., cup finals, derbies)
– Games where both teams need to score (e.g., knockout stages, teams chasing promotion or avoiding relegation)
Risks and Things to Watch Out For
Like all bets, there are risks:
1. One-Sided Second Halves
If one team is much stronger, they might score, then shut up shop. Or, if a team is winning comfortably, they might defend and not push for more goals.
2. Early Red Cards or Injuries
A sending-off or key injury early in the second half can change the game’s flow, making it less likely both teams will score.
3. Defensive Mindsets
Some managers focus on defense after halftime, especially if the score suits them. This can lead to fewer goals.
How Does It Compare to Similar Bets?
BTTS (Full Match): More likely to win, but lower odds. Goals can come at any time.
BTTS in First Half: Harder to land, as teams often start cautiously. Odds are usually higher.
Over 1.5 Second Half Goals: You just need two goals in the second half, regardless of which team scores. This can win even if only one team scores twice.
BTTS & Over 2.5 Goals: Combines both teams scoring with a minimum total of three goals in the match.
Each bet has its own risks and rewards. BTTS 2nd Half is a good choice if you expect both sides to go for it after the break.
Tips for Beginners: How to Use BTTS 2nd Half Wisely
1. Do Your Research
Check recent match stats. Do these teams often score or concede late? Are there key attackers or defenders missing?
2. Watch the Game Flow
If betting live, pay attention to how the first half went. If both teams are creating chances but haven’t scored yet, the second half could open up.
3. Consider the Stakes
Is this a must-win game for both sides? Teams chasing a result are more likely to attack late on.
4. Don’t Chase High Odds Blindly
Higher odds are tempting, but only bet when you have a solid reason to expect goals from both teams after halftime.
Conclusion: Should You Try BTTS 2nd Half?
‘Both Teams to Score in the Second Half’ is a fun and potentially rewarding bet, especially if you enjoy analyzing how matches change after halftime. It’s not as simple as a regular BTTS bet, but it offers higher odds and excitement right up to the final whistle.
If you’re just starting out, try tracking a few matches to see how often both teams score after the break. Use your observations and stats to guide your bets, and remember—no bet is guaranteed. Start small, enjoy the process, and use this market as another tool in your beginner’s betting toolkit.
With a bit of research and a careful approach, BTTS 2nd Half can add extra excitement to your football watching—and maybe even a few wins along the way.