Mastering the First Goal / Last Goal Bet: Everything You Need to Know to Play Smart
The First Goal and Last Goal betting markets have become fan favorites among football punters on top-rated betting platforms. With this type of wager, you’ll be predicting which team will net the opening goal or the final goal of a match. There’s also the possibility to bet on no goals being scored at all. Curious how this betting option works and how to use it to your advantage? Join win tips bet as we break it all down in the guide below.

What Is a First Goal / Last Goal Bet?

The First Goal / Last Goal bet is a type of football wager where you predict which team will score the first goal or the last goal of the match. From the moment the match begins, bookmakers can offer odds for either the first few goals or the last goal in the game.

If you correctly predict which team scores the first goal, you win the bet. The same applies if you correctly predict which team scores the last goal—this outcome is confirmed once the final whistle is blown.

If your prediction is incorrect, you lose your full stake. However, if a goal is scored as an own goal, it is counted as a goal for the opposing team in this bet.

On a trustworthy bookmaker streaming odds board, First/Last Goal bets are usually represented with the following symbols:

HF: Home team to score the First goal

HL: Home team to score the Last goal

AF: Away team to score the First goal

AL: Away team to score the Last goal

No Goal: Neither team scores any goals during the match

How to Read First Goal / Last Goal Odds

First, players need to understand the payout formula used by top bookmakers for these bets:

Winnings = Bet Amount × Odds for First/Last Goal

Example:

In a match between Leganés and Real Madrid, you place a $100 bet on either First Goal or Last Goal:

If you bet on Real Madrid to score first and they do, then:
→ Winnings = 100 × 1.3 = $130

If you had bet on Leganés to score first and they don’t, you lose your $100.

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If the final score is 3–1 for Real Madrid, and Leganés scores the last goal, then:

If you bet Real Madrid First Goal, you win

If you also bet Leganés Last Goal, you also win

Also, if the match is at 0–0 and Leganés scores an own goal, the first goal is credited to Real Madrid.

Tips for Betting on First / Last Goal Bets

Because these two types of bets are exciting and come with high payouts, they attract a large number of bettors. The odds of winning are quite good, especially with some basic research and smart betting. Here are a few expert tips:

1. Choose Matches with a Clear Strength Gap

This is a tip often shared among experienced bettors. Always try to choose a match where there’s a clear difference in skill level between the two teams. That makes it easier to predict which side is more likely to score first.

In most cases, the stronger team scores the first goal. While upsets do happen, they’re rare—so this is a strategy worth testing with appropriate stakes. But always make sure to research both teams carefully, or you risk making a poor judgment.

2. Pay Attention to Key Strikers

Look into the attacking players of the team you’re betting on. Teams usually have 1 to 3 top scorers who frequently find the back of the net. Knowing who these players are gives you a big advantage in First/Last Goal betting.

Take Barcelona as an example—Messi was not only a top goal-scorer but also created countless scoring chances for his teammates. Identifying these key players boosts your chances of winning.

3. Observe Team Playing Styles

Each team has its own tactical approach, and this heavily affects goal-scoring potential. Offensive-minded teams, as rated by experts, often have a 90% chance of scoring. On the flip side, teams that play defensively or rely on counterattacks are less likely to score.

So always assess a team’s playing style before placing a First or Last Goal bet.

Now that you’ve learned about First Goal and Last Goal betting, you're better prepared to make smart wagers. If you're looking for accurate odds breakdowns and match insights, find trusted sources to support your bet decisions and maximize your chances of winning!