The FIFA World Cup is one of the biggest sporting events in the world, and World Cup betting is expected to attract millions of bettors throughout the tournament. Whether you’re new to soccer betting or looking to learn more about the most common wagering options, understanding the basics can help you navigate the available markets with confidence.
From betting on individual matches to predicting the tournament winner, there are a variety of ways to get involved throughout the tournament. Here’s a look at how World Cup betting works and some of the most popular bet types you can place.
What Is World Cup Betting?
World Cup betting features a variety of outcomes throughout the tournament. You can bet on individual matches, player performances, or futures markets such as which team will win the World Cup.
Before each match, World Cup odds are available for popular betting markets, including match winners, total goals, and player props. Bettors can also place live wagers during matches as odds update in real time.
Whether you’re betting on a single game or the tournament as a whole, understanding the available markets is the first step toward making informed wagers.
Looking for the latest odds, predictions, and tournament coverage? Visit the DraftKings Network World Cup Hub for World Cup news, analysis, and betting insights throughout the tournament.
Popular FIFA World Cup Bet Types
Moneyline Betting
A moneyline bet is a wager on which team will win a match. Depending on the market, bettors may be able to wager on either team to win or choose between a home win, away win, or draw.
Total Goals Betting (Over/Under)
Total goals bets ask bettors to predict whether the combined number of goals scored in a match will finish over or under a specified total.
Both Teams to Score Betting
This popular soccer betting market asks a simple question: Will both teams score at least one goal during the match? Bettors can wager on either “Yes” or “No.”
World Cup Player Props
Player prop bets focus on individual player performances. Common examples include betting on a player to score a goal, record an assist, register a certain number of shots, or score at any time during a match. Additional props are tied to shots on target, passes, tackles, and other player statistics.
World Cup Futures Betting
Futures bets focus on tournament-long outcomes rather than individual matches. Common World Cup futures include World Cup winner odds, betting on a team to reach the final, or wagering on the tournament’s top goalscorer.
Before placing a futures wager, it’s helpful to research team form, injuries, and tournament outlooks. The World Cup Hub features team previews, odds analysis, and betting breakdowns throughout the tournament.
Same Game Parlays
A Same Game Parlay combines multiple bets from a single match into one wager. For example, a bettor might combine a team to win, a player to score, and a total goals bet into the same ticket. All selections must win for the parlay to cash.
World Cup Betting Tips for Beginners
- Start with simple bet types: If you’re new to soccer betting, consider beginning with Moneyline bets, Total Goals bets, or Both Teams to Score markets before exploring more advanced wagers.
- Understand the tournament format: Group-stage matches and knockout-stage matches can present different betting opportunities. Team motivation and qualification scenarios often play a role during the group stage.
- Pay attention to injuries and suspensions: Missing players can have a significant impact on a team’s chances, especially in a tournament setting where squads have limited time to adjust.
- Research before placing futures bets: Team form, recent results, and tournament paths can all influence World Cup futures markets such as World Cup winner odds and top goalscorer bets.
- Know how your bet will be graded: Some wagers are settled after regulation time, while others may include extra time and penalty kicks. Always review the rules for the specific market you’re betting.
Looking for team previews, odds analysis, and tournament coverage? Visit the 2026 FIFA World Cup Hub on DraftKings Network throughout the tournament.
FIFA World Cup Betting FAQ
What is the most popular World Cup bet?
Moneyline betting is one of the most popular World Cup betting options because it allows bettors to simply pick which team they believe will win a match.
Can you bet on individual players during the World Cup?
Yes. Player prop bets on outcomes such as goals scored, assists, shots, and other player performance statistics are available.
What are World Cup futures bets?
World Cup futures are wagers on tournament-long outcomes, such as the tournament winner, a team to reach the final, or the player who will finish as the competition’s top goalscorer.
Can you bet on World Cup matches live?
Yes. Live betting allows bettors to place wagers after a match has started, with odds that update throughout the game.
What is a Same Game Parlay?
A Same Game Parlay combines multiple bets from a single match into one wager. All selections must win for the parlay to cash.
