Special bets (specials)

Special bets, often called specials, go beyond the usual markets. Instead of tipping the winner or the number of goals, you bet on particular details. That can be the first goalscorer, the number of corners or whether there is a red card.

Some specials also concern events around a tournament rather than a single match. While the standard market asks who wins, specials put individual scenes or statistics at the centre.

The selection of specials differs greatly from match to match. With big matches, the offer is usually much wider than with smaller fixtures.

Single scenes such as a corner or a card often come down to chance. That makes specials harder to assess than the match result. The standard markets are a better starting point, and the guide Bet types at a glance explains them.

Some specials come up especially often. They show how wide the range goes and what you can tip on away from the pure result.

• Goalscorers: who scores first or at all in the match?
• Corners and cards: a tip on statistical values such as the number of corners.
• Half-time: events that concern only one section of the match.
• Around it: more rarely also events around a tournament or a season.

Each of these markets has its own rules. Read them before you place the bet.

A few examples show how varied specials can be. The table names typical markets with an example selection and odds.

Such markets are often harder to assess than the pure match winner, but in return they offer plenty of variety.

Specials bring variety, but are no sure thing. The overview shows what speaks for and against them.

The match result is usually easier to assess than a single detail.

Special bets are often harder to assess than the pure match outcome. Familiarise yourself with the exact rules, for example how an own goal is settled. Only stake money whose loss you can cope with, and don't let the variety tempt you into many tips. Gambling is only permitted from the age of 18 (21 in Bremen) and can be addictive.

Before a special, also check how the provider settles special cases. What happens, for instance, if an announced player doesn't take the field at all? Such rules are stated in the betting terms. Anyone who knows them avoids surprises at payout.

Treat specials as a supplement and not as the main business. Many special tips at the same time increase the risk, and you soon lose track. Here too, only stake what you can afford.