Bookmaker Odds: Finding the correct odds

Did you know that finding the fairest odds and some “gaps” in bookmakers is possible? And this can mean higher winnings. Stay tuned to the advice below and learn how to identify the so-called value odds.

Bookmaker odds

We are talking, in fact, about what we call the “expected value” of a sporting event and which translates into the way a bookmaker can assign a specific odd to that event.

And what does this mean? It means that sometimes the odds that the bookmakers set for sporting events do not correspond to the possible outcomes’ actual probabilities.

A value odd is always what we are looking for. This happens whenever the odds for a particular outcome are higher than expected (whenever odds pays better than it usually would under normal circumstances).

Finding the right odds

Giving a quick example is the best way to explain this situation. Imagine a Portuguese League Cup match that pits SL Benfica and SC Braga against each other. Near the end of the Portuguese premier league, the starting eleven chosen in Benfica’s team lacks several regular players. After all, the coach saves the players’ energies for the following, more decisive matches.

On the other side is Braga’s leading team, at full strength. Thus, the system that usually sets the odds for the bookmakers will follow the “normal” indicators. That is, analyzing the “theoretical” odds of what may happen during the game, giving apparent favoritism to Benfica.

However, in reality, since many essential players will be out, Benfica’s chances of winning the match are much lower than is reflected in the odds determined by the various bookmakers. Braga’s chances of doing well are higher than usual.

Study and analyze games and competitions

In a situation like this, a good sports bettor should be able to analyze the case according to his knowledge of the competition. This is an excellent opportunity to place his guess on a high odd and with an identified above-average value.

This process is known in the sports betting world as calculating the correct odds. What, in essence, are the actual odds of such an outcome occurring in a given sporting event. The bookmakers’ automatic odds calculation systems do not analyze “extraordinary” issues and eventually fail.

It is up to the bettor to take advantage of this failure to profit, although there is always risk associated. In this particular example, Benfica ended up winning the game. After losing by one goal at halftime, the coach fielded two players from the starting eleven, who turned the result around (with the help of a monumental failure on Braga’s goalkeeper).

A true bettor

Thus, it can be said that the bettor who cannot detect value in the odds that appear every day in the various bookmakers will lose money in the short term. Or will not be able to achieve the gains previously determined in his goals.

However, there is one point that we need to pay attention to above all: finding value bets does not mean linearly that the bettor will hit those hunches. It just means that unique opportunities to bet successfully are identified. That is, by taking advantage of the bookmakers’ operating modes in everyday situations.

This article aims not to provide you with competing calculation formulas that are not always foolproof. But to raise awareness that the bettor needs to be attentive, study, maintain high knowledge about the sport in question and thus be able to find odds of value.

To get help searching for the best odds available at any time, there is always someone who can help. Pay a visit to Oddschecker and Betbrain and see what these services can do for you.