What Is a ‘Full Time Result’ Bet? A Beginner’s Guide to the Most Popular Football Betting Market
Understanding the ‘Full Time Result’ Bet
If you’re new to football betting, you’ve probably seen the “Full Time Result” market listed at the top of almost every match. It’s one of the most straightforward options available, but the terminology can still be confusing for beginners. What exactly does “Full Time Result” mean? How does it work, and why is it so popular? Let’s break down this common betting term in simple language, using clear examples to help you get started with confidence.
What Does ‘Full Time Result’ Mean?
“Full Time Result” refers to a bet on the outcome of a football match at the end of regular time (usually 90 minutes plus injury time). This market is sometimes called “Match Result” or “1X2 betting.” In this type of bet, you have three choices:
1 – Home team to win
X – Draw (the match ends in a tie)
2 – Away team to win
You’re simply predicting which team will win, or whether the match will end in a draw, when the referee blows the final whistle after 90 minutes.
Example: How Does a Full Time Result Bet Work?
Imagine there’s a football match between Manchester United (home) and Liverpool (away).
The betting options are:
– 1 (Manchester United to win)
– X (Draw)
– 2 (Liverpool to win)
If you bet on “1” and Manchester United wins 2-1, your bet wins.
If the match ends 1-1, and you chose “X,” your bet wins.
If Liverpool wins 0-2 and you bet on “2,” you win.
It’s as simple as that—your bet is based only on the result at the end of normal time, not including extra time or penalties.
Why Do People Choose Full Time Result Bets?
This type of bet is popular because it’s easy to understand and doesn’t require any special knowledge of betting jargon or complex calculations. You’re just picking who you think will win, or if it’ll be a draw. Here are a few reasons why beginners and experienced bettors alike enjoy this market:
Simplicity: No need to worry about goal differences, scorers, or special conditions. Just pick the outcome.
Wide Availability: Almost every bookmaker offers this market for every football match.
Clear Outcomes: There are only three possible results, so it’s easy to follow.
Common Questions About Full Time Result Betting
What Happens If the Match Goes to Extra Time?
A common point of confusion: Full Time Result bets are settled after 90 minutes plus injury time only. If a match goes to extra time or penalties (for example, in a cup competition), your bet is already settled at the end of normal time. Extra time and penalties do not count.
Can I Combine Full Time Result Bets?
Yes, you can include Full Time Result selections in accumulator (acca) bets. That means you can pick the outcome of several matches, and if all your predictions are correct, you win a bigger payout. Just remember, if even one result is wrong, your acca loses.
What Are the Odds Like?
The odds for Full Time Result bets reflect the likelihood of each outcome. If a strong team plays a weaker one, the odds for the favorite will be lower, and the odds for the underdog or a draw will be higher. For closely matched teams, the odds might be quite similar for all three options.
When Should You Choose a Full Time Result Bet?
Full Time Result bets are a good choice if:
You have a strong feeling about who will win. Maybe you’ve done your research, or you just have a gut instinct about a team’s form.
You want a simple, straightforward bet. There’s no need to worry about how many goals are scored or who scores them.
You’re just starting out. This market is perfect for beginners because it’s easy to understand and doesn’t involve complicated rules.
Risks and Things to Watch Out For
Like all betting options, Full Time Result bets come with risks:
Draws Are Common: Football is a low-scoring sport, and draws happen more often than you might expect. Always consider the possibility of a draw, especially in evenly matched games.
Favourites Don’t Always Win: Even strong teams have off days. Betting only on favorites can be risky if you’re not careful.
Low Odds on Big Teams: If you bet on a heavy favorite, the odds might be so low that your potential winnings are small compared to your stake.
How Does Full Time Result Compare to Other Bet Types?
It helps to know how this market stacks up against similar options:
Double Chance: Lets you cover two results (win or draw, for example), but the odds are lower.
Draw No Bet: Removes the draw as an option—if the match ends in a draw, your stake is refunded. Again, the odds are lower than the Full Time Result market.
Handicap/Asian Handicap: These bets adjust the starting score to even the playing field, and can be more complex.
If you want the highest possible odds for picking a winner (or draw), Full Time Result is the way to go. If you want to reduce risk, you might prefer Double Chance or Draw No Bet, but you’ll get lower odds in return.
Tips for Beginners: Making the Most of Full Time Result Bets
1. Do Your Research: Check recent results, team news, injuries, and head-to-head records before making your pick. The more you know, the better your chances.
2. Don’t Ignore the Draw: Many new bettors focus only on picking a winner, but draws are common in football. Sometimes, the draw offers the best value.
3. Manage Your Bankroll: Only bet what you can afford to lose, and don’t chase losses by increasing your stakes.
4. Shop Around for Odds: Different bookmakers may offer slightly different odds. Compare before you place your bet.
5. Start Small: If you’re new, place small bets until you get comfortable with how things work.
Conclusion: Your First Step Into Football Betting
The “Full Time Result” bet is the foundation of football betting. It’s simple, widely available, and easy to understand, making it the perfect starting point for beginners. By knowing exactly what you’re betting on and understanding how the odds work, you can make informed choices and enjoy the excitement of the game.
Start by watching a few matches, trying out small bets, and paying attention to how often each outcome occurs. With a bit of practice and research, you’ll soon feel confident exploring more complex betting markets. Remember: betting should always be fun and responsible. Stick to what you know, start simple, and you’ll build a solid foundation for your football betting journey.