If you have seen 1, X and 2 next to a football fixture and wondered what they mean, you are looking at the simplest way to back a match result.
This guide explains how the 1x2 market works, what each symbol stands for, how to read the odds and how to convert them into implied probability. It also shows how 1x2 compares with other popular markets, highlights what can shift prices before kick-off and clears up common misunderstandings.
You will find clear examples along the way. As with any form of betting, manage your play, set limits that suit your circumstances and keep it optional.
What Do 1, X And 2 Stand For?
In football betting, the 1x2 market shows the three possible results of a match within regular time.
1 means a home win. A bet on 1 predicts the home team will finish with more goals than the away team.
X means a draw. Backing X predicts both teams will finish with the same number of goals.
2 means an away win. A bet on 2 predicts the away team will score more than the home team by the final whistle.
These outcomes apply to the result after 90 minutes plus injury time. Extra time and penalties are not usually included in 1x2 settlement, so cup ties decided after the 90-minute result are settled on the score at full time only.
With the outcomes clear, the next step is understanding what the prices on each option are telling you.
How To Read 1x2 Odds On A Betting Slip
On a typical betting slip, you will see three prices side by side: 1 (home), X (draw) and 2 (away). Prices are shown in fractional form (for example, 5/2) or decimal form (for example, 3.50).
- Fractional odds show potential profit relative to stake. At 3/1, a £5 stake would make £15 profit and return £20 in total, including the £5 stake.
- Decimal odds show the total return per £1 staked. At 3.50, a £5 stake would return £17.50 in total, which is £12.50 profit plus the £5 stake.
Shorter prices, such as 4/5, indicate a higher estimated chance of that outcome, while higher prices, such as 6/1, point to a lower estimated chance. Always check your selection, stake and potential return on the slip before confirming.
How Are 1x2 Odds Calculated And Converted To Implied Probability?
Bookmakers price 1x2 markets by estimating the chance of each result, using information such as team form, injuries, suspensions, tactical approach, schedule congestion and home advantage. Those estimates are then expressed as fractional or decimal odds.
You can convert any price into an implied probability to see the estimated chance behind the number:
- Decimal odds: implied probability = (1 ÷ decimal odds) × 100. For example, 2.50 converts to 40%.
- Fractional odds a/b: implied probability = b ÷ (a + b) × 100. For example, 3/1 converts to 25%.
If you add up the implied probabilities of 1, X and 2, you will usually get a figure above 100%. The amount over 100% is the bookmaker’s margin, often called the overround, which is built into the prices.
With pricing basics covered, it becomes easier to see how 1x2 fits alongside other ways to approach a match.
1x2 Versus Other Match Markets
The 1x2 market focuses only on the full-time result within 90 minutes plus injury time. It is straightforward, with three possible outcomes.
Other markets focus on different questions. Both Teams to Score asks whether each side will score at least once. Over/Under Goals looks at the combined goal total and whether it will finish above or below a line, such as 2.5. Correct Score requires predicting the exact final score. First Goalscorer involves naming the player who will score first.
There are also hybrids that sit between simple and specific. Double Chance combines two of the three outcomes into one selection, and Draw No Bet removes the draw by settling stakes back if the match ends level. Each market has its own rules and risk profile. The more precise the prediction required, the more outcomes you have to get right, which is reflected in the prices.
What Factors Influence 1x2 Odds Before Kick-Off?
Prices can move right up to kick-off as information changes. Recent team form matters, including how sides are creating chances and preventing them, not just headline results. Home advantage is often priced in, as many teams perform better in familiar surroundings.
Availability is crucial. Injuries and suspensions to key players, or a manager rotating the squad because of a busy schedule, can shift the balance. Head-to-head records may nudge prices, especially if there are clear stylistic matchups that regularly influence how the game plays out.
Context also counts. Weather can affect tempo and finishing, travel and fixture congestion can sap energy, and tactical tweaks can alter the expected pattern of the match. As new team news emerges, the 1x2 market often adjusts to reflect it.
Common Mistakes And Misconceptions About 1x2
A frequent misunderstanding is assuming extra time or penalties count. Unless stated otherwise, 1x2 is settled on the 90-minute result plus injury time only.
Another is overlooking the draw. Many matches are tight, and X can be a realistic outcome, particularly when evenly matched teams meet or when the incentives for both sides make a low-risk approach sensible.
Confusing 1x2 with other markets is common. Handicap betting adjusts the starting score, which changes how a result is settled. Double Chance and Draw No Bet alter the risk and reward balance compared with a standard 1x2.
Relying on reputation instead of current information can also cause problems. Short prices do not guarantee a result, and a team’s name or status is not a substitute for form, injuries and tactical context.
Quick Worked Examples Of 1x2 Bets
To help clarify how 1x2 betting works, here are a few simple examples:
Example 1
A football match lists the following odds:
Home win (1) – 2/1
Draw (X) – 3/1
Away win (2) – 4/6
If you place £5 on the home win at 2/1 and the home team wins, the profit is £10 and the total return is £15, including your £5 stake. Any other result means the stake is lost.
Example 2
For a different match, the odds are shown as:
Home win (1) – 1.80
Draw (X) – 3.50
Away win (2) – 4.00
A £10 bet on the draw at 3.50 would return £35 in total if the match ends level, which is £25 profit plus the £10 stake.
Example 3
Suppose you back the away win at 5/1 with a £2 stake. If the away team wins, the total return is £12, made up of £10 profit plus the £2 stake.
If you choose to bet, set limits that fit your situation and stick to them. If gambling starts to affect your well-being or finances, seek support early. Independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware offer free, confidential help for anyone who needs it. With the fundamentals of 1x2 clear and a focus on staying in control, you can read a match coupon with confidence and understand exactly what each price means.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.