18 Strategies to Maximize Your Winnings With MLS Betting Odds

The MLS continues to rise in popularity, with a 5% increase in average attendance per match in 2023 compared to 2022.

Of course, with the league’s growth, the betting market is growing with it as well.

Are you planning to bet on MLS games? It doesn’t matter whether you’re new to MLS betting or just looking to improve your approach to it.

The strategies we’ll discuss here will no doubt boost your chances of bringing home the bacon.

Here are what you can do:

1. Understand MLS betting lines and odds

Don’t dive into complex strategies just yet.

It’s crucial to grasp the basics first.

MLS odds come in various formats, with moneyline wagers being the most straightforward.

What happens here is you’re simply betting on which team will win or if the match will end in a draw.

However, MLS betting lines offer more than just win-draw-lose options.

You’ve got to familiarize yourself with concepts like the spread, over/under bets, and futures bets.

Online resources containing betting insights are your best friends in this case.

Talk about a surefire way of staying on top of the MLS odds for today and the rest of the season!

2. Analyze team form and statistics

Success in MLS betting hinges on thorough analysis.

Team statistics, recent form, head-to-head records…

these are the things you’ve got to dive into.

Consider factors like:

• Goals scored and conceded
• Home and away performance
• Player injuries and suspensions
• Tactical matchups

Remember, a team’s overall league position doesn’t always reflect their current form.

A mid-table team on a hot streak might offer better value than a struggling top-tier squad.

3. Capitalize on home advantage

In MLS, as with most other leagues, home advantage often plays a significant role.

For instance, in the current season, in the New York Red Bull‘s home games, they’ve scored 24% more goals than when they’re playing away.

It makes sense, right? Long travel distances and varying climates can impact visiting teams’ performances.

So, when assessing MLS betting markets, give extra weight to home teams, especially when they’re facing opponents from distant places.

4. Exploit value bets and underdog opportunities

Profitable MLS betting isn’t just about picking winners; it’s about finding value.

Bookmakers occasionally underestimate underdogs, creating opportunities for savvy bettors.

Look for instances where the odds seem out of sync with your analysis of the matchup.

In simpler terms, it’s when the odds offered by the bookmaker don’t accurately reflect the true chances of an outcome happening.

Then, see if you can take advantage of it.

5. Stay informed on team news and lineups

MLS teams often rotate players due to congested schedules, international duties, or squad management.

So, stay up to date with team news, predicted lineups, and last-minute changes.

Always keep in mind that a key player’s absence can significantly shift the odds and create betting opportunities.

6. Leverage in-play betting

Live odds also offer dynamic opportunities for MLS betting.

Note that as a match unfolds, odds fluctuate based on the game’s flow.

If you’re watching a game and spot a trend the bookmakers haven’t fully accounted for, in-play betting can be lucrative.

It’s basically placing bets on an event after it has already started.

7. Consider multiple betting markets

Expanding your horizons beyond basic win-lose wagers can really spice up your MLS betting game.

The good news is that the league’s betting landscape is rich with diverse options that cater to all sorts of predictions.

Fancy yourself a goal guru? Try your hand at over/under bets or wager on both teams finding the net.

If you’ve got a knack for pinpointing prolific strikers, like Real Salt Lake’s Christian Arango, who’s currently leading the top scorers list with 17 goals, first goalscorer bets might be your ticket.

For the bold, correct score predictions offer tantalizing odds, while half-time/full-time results let you capitalize on your understanding of game flow.

By spreading your bets across these varied markets, you’re not just adding excitement – you’re potentially boosting your bottom line while mitigating some risk.

It’s like building a well-rounded investment portfolio but way more fun and with more soccer.

8. Understand the impact of the MLS cup and playoffs

The MLS regular season determines playoff spots, but team motivation can vary.

Here’s an important consideration: some squads might prioritize qualification over table position.

Thus, as the season progresses, keep an eye on teams fighting for playoff berths or positioning themselves for a deep MLS Cup run.

Of course, you’d want to bet on these teams.

9. Factor in schedule congestion

MLS teams also often face packed schedules, especially those competing in additional tournaments like the CONCACAF Champions League.

Of course, a team playing its third game in a week might struggle against a well-rested opponent.

So, factor that into your analysis when assessing MLS odds.

10. Use multiple sportsbooks

Different online sportsbooks offer varying MLS betting lines and odds.

Compare options across multiple platforms, too.

That way, you can ensure you’re always getting the best value for your wagers.

This strategy, known as line shopping, can significantly boost your long-term profitability.

11. Implement a solid bankroll management strategy

Of course, successful MLS betting also requires disciplined bankroll management.

What you can do is set aside a specific amount for betting and stick to it.

A common approach is the Kelly Criterion, which suggests sizing your bets based on your perceived edge and the odds offered.

12. Analyze player props carefully

Did you know that player prop bets, such as goal scorers or assist totals, can also offer value if you’ve done your homework?

Study individual player statistics, recent form, and matchups against specific defenders.

Remember, a striker’s overall season tally doesn’t always reflect their likelihood of scoring in a particular game.

13. Be wary of the double chance

While double chance bets (betting on two of three possible outcomes) offer higher win probability, the odds are usually less favourable.

Use this bet type judiciously, perhaps when you’re confident a heavy favourite won’t lose but aren’t sure if they’ll win outright.

14. Consider the impact of international breaks

MLS doesn’t always pause for international fixtures or tournaments like the Copa America.

If that’s the case, teams missing key players due to national team commitments may struggle.

This scenario often creates value betting opportunities on their opponents or under total goals markets.

15. Understand the nuances of MLS futures bets

MLS futures bets, such as predicting the MLS Cup winner or Golden Boot recipient, require a different approach.

Here, you’ll have to consider factors like team depth, historical playoff performance, and potential midseason transfers.

Remember, early season odds often offer the best value but carry more risk.

16. Don’t neglect the draw

In soccer betting, including MLS, the draw is always a possible outcome.

Many bettors overlook this option, but in closely matched games, the draw can offer excellent value.

Analyze teams’ drawing rates and consider this option in tight contests.

17. Use handicapping techniques

Don’t forget to develop your own power rankings or rating system for MLS teams as well.

By assigning your own odds to matches and comparing them with the bookmakers’ lines, you can identify potential value bets more easily.

18. Stay disciplined and keep records

Finally, maintain detailed records of your MLS bets, including the reasoning behind each wager.

This practice allows you to analyze your performance over time, identify strengths and weaknesses in your strategy, and refine your approach.

Remember, while these strategies can enhance your MLS betting experience, there’s no guaranteed path to profit.

Always bet responsibly and within your means.

If you feel betting is negatively impacting your life, don’t hesitate to seek help for gambling problems.

Conclusion

If you want to increase your chances of success in MLS betting, you’ve got to have an intricate understanding as to how the odds work in an MLS, analyze the teams and players involved, stay updated about league dynamics, and use sound bankroll management.

Another important thing to remember is that no strategy will guarantee you a win.

And responsible betting forms the substratum of all strategies.