In short, over/under 4.5 goals is a bet on the total number of goals in a game across 90 minutes plus stoppages. Over 4.5 goals is a bet on 5 or more goals in a game, while under 4.5 goals is a bet on 4 or fewer goals in a game. The total number includes all goals scored by both teams, but there are other markets available if you just want to bet on team goals.
You will find that the .5 decimals are present in all of the over/under goals markets, and it shows there is no possibility for a draw or refund in these markets. Nevertheless, it is a very popular bet on the top betting sites in the UK and especially among football punters, though you will find these markets for other sports as well.
If you are looking for the bookies with the best odds, we recommend checking out our betting margins guide, where we test each betting site to see which bookie offers the highest odds.
Over 4.5 goals is a bet on a game having 5 or more goals scored in 90 minutes plus stoppage time, but extra time will not count. Both teams' goals count towards the over 4.5 goals market, but, this bet will lose if there are 4 or fewer goals in the match.
As an example, let's say that you decide to place a bet on a Championship clash between Leeds United and Huddersfield Town. A fierce derby, and you get the feeling that it could be a goal-fest at Elland Road. Therefore, you place a bet on there to be over 4.5 goals in the game, which is indeed a rather bold bet in football.
The game finishes 3-2 in favour of Leeds United after a last-minute winner, meaning the bet is a success. Had that last goal not been scored, though, then you would have lost as there would have only been four goals in the game.
Under 4.5 goals is a bet on a game having 4 or fewer goals scored in 90 minutes plus stoppage time, but extra time will not count. Again, all goals scored by both teams count towards the under 4.5 goals market, and you will need 4 or fewer goals in the match to win this bet.
As an example, Sevilla vs. Manchester United is coming up and punters are getting ready to place their Europa League bets. You decide to play it safe, placing an under 4.5 goals bet, knowing that the odds are slightly higher as the fixture has had many goals in the past. As expected, the game finishes 2-1 to Sevilla (3 goals in the game) and the bet pays out in full.
The under 4.5 goals market is rarely the best for odds value, but it can be a fun one if you do not want to have too much riding on the game.
Below are the three best-betting sites for the highest over/under 4.5 goals betting odds, all present in our list of the top 10 best football bookies.
Join bet365
Bet £10 Get £50 in Free Bets
Min. Deposit | £5 |
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Max. Amount | £50 |
Turnover | No wagering |
Expiration | 30 days |
Join Coral
Bet £10 Get £40 in Free Bets
Min. Deposit | £10 |
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Max. Amount | £40 |
Turnover | No wagering |
Expiration | 7 days |
Join Unibet
Bet £10 Get £40 in Bonuses
Min. Deposit | £10 |
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Max. Amount | £40 |
Turnover | 0x sports, 50x casino |
Expiration | 7 days |
Steven is an experienced iGaming content writer who has been working in the industry since 2018. He is passionate about sports betting and enjoys writing about all aspects of the industry, including bookmaker reviews, betting tips and strategies, and news and analysis.