Glossary
A betting dictionary: odds, margin, handicap, totals, bankroll and other line terms.
Each card is a full article: what the term means, how books price it, a worked example and common mistakes. This is a player reference, not tips and not a place to bet.
Favourite
The side the book prices as more likely, shown as the shorter odds.
First goalscorer
Who scores the first goal. Anytime scorer sits next to it. Own goals and 0-0 have special rules.
Flat staking
The same fraction of bankroll on every bet, usually 1% or 2%, win or lose.
Form
Recent results as a signal. Five wins in a row is a headline; opponent quality, home/away split and xG tell you if it is signal.
Fractional odds
UK format such as 5/2 or 10/11: net profit relative to stake, not including the stake in the fraction.
Free bet
A token stake the book gives you. Winning tickets usually pay profit only; the token itself is not returned.
Futures
Long-term season markets: champion, top scorer, to make the playoffs. The line lives for months.