MLS Soccer Betting And Odds

Last Updated: April 11, 2024 9:56 pm

Soccer is slowly taking over here in the United States. The Premier League and other European leagues may still have higher quality matches. But any soccer fan can tell you that the US’s 26 teams are filled with talent. Soccer’s popularity is growing so quickly that Austin FC and St. Louis FC will be joining the league within the next couple of years.

MLS Soccer Betting And Odds

The regular season runs from March to October, with the main draw being the playoffs from October to November. Before placing an MLS prediction, it can help to familiarize yourself with common terms and odds. We’ll cover all that and more below. 

How are MLS betting odds determined?

MLS betting odds are set by bookmakers based on the probabilities of possible outcomes in a match. These odds reflect the likelihood of each team winning, the number of goals scored, among other aspects of the game. Odds can be presented in American, Decimal, or Fractional formats, typically depending on the preference of the bettor or the sportsbook.

What types of bets can I place on MLS games?

Several types of bets can be placed on MLS games, including:

  • Moneyline Bets: Betting on which team will win the match.
  • Total Bets (Over/Under): Betting on the total number of goals scored by both teams.
  • Spread Bets: Wagering on the goal difference between the two teams at the end of the match.
  • Prop Bets: Betting on specific occurrences within a game such as who will score first or how many yellow cards will be issued.
  • Futures Bets: Wagering on outcomes that will be decided at the end of the season, such as which team will win the MLS Cup.

Free MLS Picks Moneyline

Here’s a straightforward and popular way to bet on MLS. In a moneyline bet, you pick which team you think will win the game. For example, LA Galaxy is -180 to win over Atlanta United. So, if you bet $180 on Galaxy and win, you would receive $280.

The only problem with moneyline betting in soccer is that if the game ends in a tie, the bet is counted as a push, and the money is typically returned. However, be sure to check with your sportsbook because some of them handle ties differently. 

Free MLS Picks Against the Spread

Every team in the league is different, with some being far better than others. Often, when one team has an enormous advantage over another, the moneyline odds are way too high. For example, let’s say the LA Galaxy are -300 over Nashville SC. This means that to make $100 on this game, you’d have to bet $300.

If the moneyline odds are too high, you could consider betting against the spread (ATS). If the LA Galaxy are -1.5 (-105), and you place an ATS pick on the Galaxy, they need to win by two goals. Plus, it would only take a $105 wager to make $100 on the game, rather than the much higher moneyline odds. Less risk for the same reward if you win.

Free MLS Picks Totals

Betting on who might win an MLS game can be fun, but wagering on how many total goals will be scored in a game by both teams is also a popular option among fans. Bettors typically select whether that total will be Over or Under a specific number set by the sportsbookFurthermore, here’s a great tip: bettors often bet the Under since many MLS teams play more defensively. 

What to Consider

When betting on MLS games, consider factors such as team form, head-to-head records, injuries, player suspensions, and even weather conditions. Analyzing statistical data and past performance can also provide insights and potentially increase the chances of placing successful bets.

Improve Your MLS Betting Strategies

Improving your MLS betting strategies involves doing thorough research and staying informed about league events, player news, and statistical trends. Utilizing betting guides, expert analyses, and maintaining disciplined bankroll management are also crucial to enhancing your betting approach.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Common mistakes to avoid include betting based on personal bias, failing to shop for the best lines, overbetting, and not considering the full context of the game such as current team dynamics and external factors like venue and weather conditions.

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MLS Betting FAQs

What is MLS sports betting?

MLS sports betting involves wagering on outcomes of Major League Soccer matches. Bettors can place a variety of bets including who will win a match, score totals, player performances, and long-term achievements such as which team will win the championship.

Can I bet on live MLS games?

Yes, most sportsbooks offer live betting on MLS games, allowing bettors to place wagers while the match is in progress. Odds for live betting fluctuate as the game evolves based on the current score, gameplay, and other influencing factors.

Is it legal to bet on MLS games online?

Yes, betting on MLS games online is legal in many jurisdictions where sports betting is regulated. It is important to ensure that the sportsbook is licensed and operates legally in your area before placing bets.

How do I start betting on MLS games?

To start betting on MLS games, choose a reputable licensed sportsbook, create an account, deposit funds, and begin by placing small, well-researched bets. As you gain more experience, you can explore different types of bets and betting strategies.

What resources are useful for MLS betting?

Useful resources for MLS betting include sports news websites, MLS official statistics, betting forums, and sportsbook tools that offer insights and analytics. Engaging with these resources can help you make informed decisions and better understand the betting landscape.