You’re a football fan but new to betting — place your favorite bet on IviBet and check out a few tips.
When it comes to football betting, most beginners immediately look at team form: who has been winning recent matches and who’s on a losing streak. The logic is clear — a strong team should beat a weaker one. But in reality, things aren’t that simple. Many other factors influence the outcome of a match, and ignoring them can be a big mistake. Let’s go over a few of them.
Referees: The “Human Factor” on the Pitch
Football is a contact sport, and much depends on how the referee manages the match. Some referees allow tougher play, while others whistle for every touch. This directly affects the pace of the game and even the number of goals. For example, a strict referee can break up an attacking rhythm and increase the chances of a penalty. That’s why it’s useful to check referee statistics before placing a bet: how many fouls, cards, and penalties they usually give.
Weather: The Hidden Enemy of Favorites
Football may seem universal, but weather conditions can turn things upside down. Rain makes the pitch slippery, the ball harder to control, and often levels the playing field. Strong wind disrupts long passes. Heat tires players more quickly, especially those used to mild climates. Imagine a top club with a technical style arriving in a city where heavy rain floods the pitch. Suddenly, their passing combinations turn into random bounces, while the underdog relying on strength and crosses gains an advantage.
Motivation: Not All Matches Are Equally Important
A team may be in great form, but the question is — how much do they actually care about this particular match? For example, a league leader who already secured a playoff spot might field a second-string lineup. Or a club playing in a “less prestigious” cup might only aim to avoid injuries. At the same time, an underdog fighting for survival could approach the game as if it were their last battle. In such cases, motivation can outweigh pure class.
Fixture Congestion: Fatigue Matters
The football season is packed — league matches, cup competitions, European tournaments, national team games. When a team plays every two or three days, they simply can’t give their all in every match. Coaches rotate lineups, and substitutes end up on the field. What’s more, fatigue impacts focus and speed. So if you see a club just played a tough Champions League match and has another league game two days later, that’s a serious sign: the result could be unexpected.
Bottom Line: Look Beyond Form
Yes, team form is an important factor. But if you want to take betting seriously, you can’t rely on it alone. Referees, weather, motivation, and fixture congestion — all of these details change the picture. Experienced bettors notice them, while beginners often overlook them.So the main advice is — always dig deeper. Before placing a bet, ask yourself: “Are there factors that could influence the game besides the win-loss stats?” If the answer is yes, then you’re on the right track.