In Play Betting

In-play betting refers to being able to place a bet on an event that has already started. This is a popular type of bet in football. It can also be referred to as ‘live betting’, or in horse racing, an ‘in running’ bet.

Compare the In-Play Betting Sites & Bonuses in the UK

Use our comparison table of in-play betting bookies regulated by the UK Gambling Commission to compare welcome bonuses, betting options, deposit methods, and platforms.

What is in-play betting?

In-play betting, also known as live betting or in-game betting, is a type of sports betting that allows you to place bets on a sporting event after it has already started. Unlike traditional betting where you place your bets before the game begins, in-play betting gives you the opportunity to wager on various aspects of the game while it is in progress. This can include bets on the next team to score, the outcome of the current quarter or period, player performance, and many other dynamic betting options.

In-play betting is made possible by advanced technology and live streaming services, which provide real-time updates and allow bookmakers to offer odds and accept bets throughout the duration of the game or match. This type of betting adds an extra level of excitement for bettors, as they can adjust their strategies based on the unfolding events of the game. However, it also requires quick decision-making and a good understanding of the sport and its dynamics, as odds can change rapidly based on what is happening on the field or court.

How does in-play betting work?

In-play betting in the UK works by placing bets during a live event that is currently taking place, it is a form of sports trading. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Access to Betting Platforms: In the UK, there are numerous licensed online sportsbooks and betting platforms. Players need to create an account on these platforms, provide necessary identification and payment information, and deposit funds into their accounts.
2. Selection of Live Events: Once logged in, users can navigate to the live betting section of the platform. There, they will find a list of ongoing sporting events across various sports such as football, tennis, basketball, cricket, etc.
3. Live Streaming and Real-Time Data: Many platforms offer live streaming services or provide real-time data and statistics for ongoing events. This information is crucial for making informed in-play betting decisions. Live streaming allows bettors to watch the game and make bets based on their observations.
4. Betting Markets: In-play betting offers a variety of betting markets, similar to pre-match betting. You can bet on outcomes like the next team to score, the player to score the next goal, the result at the end of the current quarter, total goals, number of corners, and much more, depending on the sport.
5. Changing Odds: Odds for in-play betting markets continuously change based on the events happening in the game. For example, if a team is attacking aggressively, the odds for them scoring the next goal might decrease. If a key player gets injured, odds might shift in favor of the opposing team.
6. Placing Bets: Bettors can place bets on these changing odds at any point during the game. They simply need to click on the desired market, enter the stake they want to bet, and confirm the bet. The bet is usually processed almost instantly.
7. Cash Out Option: Some UK betting platforms also offer a “Cash Out” feature for in-play bets. This feature allows bettors to settle their bets before the event has concluded. The offered amount depends on the current odds and the likelihood of the bet winning. This feature gives bettors more control over their bets, allowing them to secure profits or minimize losses before the game ends.

How to make money with in-play betting?

In-play betting can be an exciting way to engage with sports and potentially make a profit, but it’s important to understand that it also involves risks. Bookmakers adjust their odds rapidly during live events, making it challenging to consistently make money. However, if you are interested in trying in-play betting, here are some strategies and tips that might help:

1. Deep Understanding of the Sport: To be successful in in-play betting, you need to have a deep understanding of the sport you are betting on. Knowledge about the teams, players, their strategies, strengths, and weaknesses can provide valuable insights that can inform your betting decisions.
2. Watch the Game: If possible, watch the game you are betting on. Live streaming or television broadcasts provide important visual cues that might not be reflected in statistics alone. Observing the flow of the game and the performance of individual players can help you make more informed bets.
3. Focus on Specific Markets: In-play betting offers a wide variety of markets. Focus on specific markets that you are knowledgeable about and understand well. Specializing in specific markets can increase your chances of making accurate predictions.
4. Use Stats and Data: Utilize live statistics and data available on betting platforms. Stats such as possession percentages, shots on target, and corner kicks can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of the game. Some platforms also provide historical data about teams and players, which can be useful for making predictions.
5. Stay Calm and Patient: In-play betting can be fast-paced, and odds can change rapidly. It’s essential to stay calm and patient, especially when you encounter losing streaks. Avoid impulsive betting decisions and stick to your strategies.
6. Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your in-play betting activities and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Proper bankroll management is crucial for long-term success in betting.
7. Explore Cash Out Options: Some betting platforms offer cash out options that allow you to settle your bets before the event concludes. This feature can be useful for securing profits or minimizing losses, especially if the game is not unfolding as you expected.
8. Arbitrage Betting: Arbitrage betting involves placing bets on all possible outcomes of a single event with different bookmakers, ensuring a profit regardless of the outcome. However, this strategy requires quick decision-making and a good understanding of odds and betting markets.
9. Continuous Learning: The world of sports and betting is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest news, strategies, and trends. Continuous learning and adaptation can improve your chances of making profitable in-play bets.

In-play betting on betting exchanges

In-play betting on betting exchanges allows people to back and lay bets on an event that has started and/or still happening. The nature of in-play betting means you can trade the market and take advantage of its volatility as the action happens.

You can apply trading techniques to secure a profit, whatever the outcome, by backing and laying, or you can reduce your loss risk. Betting in-play allows you to react to variables in a live event, such as goals scored in football. For example, if you back for there to be three goals in a game, depending on what was happening, you could lay that bet to reduce any losses.

Football, horse racing, tennis, golf, and cricket are just some of the sports that in-play betting is especially popular.