The arrival of global soccer icon Lionel Messi has catapulted Major League Soccer (MLS) to new heights, both within the United States and internationally. This surge in attention has naturally led to a boom in Bitcoin betting activities around the league.
Whether you’re after MLS betting advice, a strategy for Bitcoin bets on MLS games, or simply want to understand the basics of placing a bet, look no further than GOSUBETTING’s tell-all guide on MLS Bitcoin betting. Consider this your essential starting point for betting on MLS matches.
Best Major League Soccer Bitcoin Bookmakers & Sportsbooks
MLS: A Brief Overview
As a part of the effort by the US soccer federation to host the 1994 World Cup, Major league soccer was formed in 1993. In 1996, a season was started with 10 teams and a television contract with ESPN. However, the league did not last long because of problems with low attendance, instability of finances, and failure to adjust soccer to American standards. This made 2 teams collapse, together with a $250 million debt.
However, things began turning around for the league in 2002 when the US men’s national team made a run into the second round of the World Cup. This became the milestone that prompted MLS to follow suit and align its laws with the internationally recognized laws of the game governed by IFAB, an umbrella organization under FIFA. Around this period, MLS also shifted its strategy by building soccer-specific stadiums for its teams, moving away from sharing NFL venues.
Understanding the Structure of MLS
Before diving into the soccer Bitcoin betting tips, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the framework of MLS. But it’s not just an American league, three Canadian clubs also participate, making MLS a truly continental competition since it started.
Each team participates in 34 matches from February to October. Much like the NHL, teams earn three points for wins and one point for draws. At the close of each season, the squad accumulating the most points is awarded with the Supporters’ Shield. For the MLS playoffs, top performers from the Eastern and Western Conference face off in a bracket-format league in pursuit of the valuable Major League Soccer Cup.
Why opt for MLS Betting Using Bitcoin?
Bitcoin has revolutionized the cryptocurrency sports betting industry across the globe. The digital currency comes with so many benefits for people who want to bet on Major League Soccer matches during the season.
Fast Transactions
One of the standout benefits of using Bitcoin for betting is the rapidity of transactions. The swiftness with which you can both deposit and withdraw funds outclasses traditional online betting platforms.
When you opt for Bitcoin, you can expect to see your withdrawals processed in mere minutes, as opposed to the days or even weeks it can take with conventional currencies. This quick transaction time is a hallmark of top-tier Bitcoin sports betting sites.
Generous Bonuses
Another compelling reason to use Bitcoin for MLS betting is the generous bonuses available. Online sportsbooks have been quick to cater to the growing interest in Bitcoin, offering exclusive promotions and bonuses to those who use the digital currency.
These enticing offers not only extend the life of your initial deposit but also add an extra layer of excitement to your MLS betting experience. Numerous sportsbooks offer unique bonuses for Bitcoin users that are not available through other payment methods.
Large Deposits & Withdrawals
Looking to place a substantial bet on your favorite MLS team? Bitcoin allows for larger deposits and higher withdrawal limits, making it an attractive option for seasoned bettors looking to maximize their earnings.
No Transaction Fees
What sets Bitcoin further apart is the absence of transaction fees imposed by Bitcoin-friendly sportsbooks. Additionally, you’ll be shielded from the volatility of Bitcoin’s price when you deposit the digital currency into your chosen online crypto sportsbook.
Types of MLS Bets
To effectively bet on Major League Soccer games, you need to get familiar with the different kinds of bets. Below, we delve into the various bet types to give you the knowledge needed to make the most of the MLS betting tips we discuss.
Straight Bet or Moneyline Bets
For those new to MLS betting, moneyline bets are the most straightforward option. In this type of bet, you’re simply choosing which team will win the match. Moneyline odds are indicated with a (+) for the underdog and a (-) for the favorite, similar to other sports.
For example, if you’re considering a match between the Philadelphia Union (-145) and New England (+376), you can use the moneyline option to predict the outcome.
Point Spreads
When a dominant team is pitted against a weaker one, sportsbooks offer point-spread betting to level the playing field. This allows bettors to get favorable odds on the favorite, but there’s a catch. The favorite must win by a specific number of goals, known as the point spread.
For example, if LAFC is at the spread of -1.5 in a match with a weaker opponent like Colorado Rapids, then you win when you predict that LAFC won by at least two goals. However, when betting on Colorado as underdogs, you can pick a +1.5 point spread which entails Colorado winning or drawing the game with a margin of not more than 1 goal against the opponents for you to carry the day. It’s worth noting that these bets usually apply only to regulation time.
Initial Half and Second Half Wagers
These types of bets can be made on both point spreads and moneylines and are valid only for the first half of the game. Once halftime arrives, new odds are presented, allowing you to place bets for the second half, which only concern the events of that half.
Totals or Over/Under
In MLS betting, the totals are usually set at 2.5 or 3.5 goals. Here, you’re wagering on the cumulative number of goals scored during the match (within regulation time). For instance, if a game between FC Cincinnati and NYCFC ends in a 2-2 draw, totaling four goals, an OVER 3.5 bet would win, while an UNDER bet would lose.
Parlay Bets
Parlays allow you to amplify your potential returns without increasing your stake. In a parlay, you combine multiple picks into a single bet. The more teams you include, the higher the potential payout, but also the risk. For example, a $10 parlay bet on New England Revolution -250, Nashville FC +250, and Inter Miami FC +300 would yield $186 if all three teams win. However, missing even one pick results in a lost bet.
Same-Game Parlays (SGPs)
SGPs are gaining traction and involve multiple bets within a single game. For example, in a match between Columbus Crew and Toronto FC, you could bet on the Crew’s moneyline, Over 2.5 goals, and Christian Ramirez to score, all of which could yield a +160 payout if successful.
Proposition Bets (Prop Bets)
Prop bets allow you to wager on specific events within a game that don’t necessarily affect the final outcome, such as the number of corners or penalties.
In-Game Betting
In contrast to pre-match betting, in-game or live betting allows you to place bets after the match has started. The odds are dynamic, changing based on the game’s progress. Some sportsbooks offer features like cash-out, letting you settle for a reduced payout on a pre-game bet based on real-time events.
Futures Bets
Futures bets are long-term wagers offering more favorable odds for season-long commitments compared to a single-game moneyline bet. For example, you could place a futures bet on a team to win the league. The odds for futures bets are updated weekly, following the completion of that week’s matches. A bet on a mid-table team like CF Montreal to win the MLS Cup would yield a substantial payout if they manage to clinch the title.
Advice for Betting on Major League Soccer
Here are some key pointers to help you make informed sports bets on the ever-expanding MLS. These tips, curated by our league specialists, aim to guide you towards more reliable bets. Below are some of the most crucial MLS soccer betting recommendations for consistent long-term gains.
Compare Odds Across Bookmakers
Before placing a bet, it’s crucial to check the MLS odds offered by multiple crypto sportsbooks. Even slight differences in odds can have a significant impact on your overall profits. For example, while Stake might offer odds of -200 for LAFC to win against LA Galaxy, BC. Game might offer them at -170. Over time, these differences can add up, so it’s advisable to register with multiple top-tier sportsbooks.
Additionally, signing up with multiple Bitcoin sportsbooks allows you to take advantage of various welcome bonuses. Just make sure to read the terms and conditions for each bonus offer.
Stay Updated with MLS Data
Information such as lineups, trades, signings, injury reports, and player statistics is often available on social media platforms like Twitter. Following these sources can give you valuable insights into team performance throughout the season. Dig deeper into statistics to understand how each team is performing and to identify potential betting opportunities that may have been overlooked by sportsbooks.
Examine Recent and Past Performances
Understanding how teams have performed in recent matches, especially those similar to the one you’re considering betting on, is vital. Take note of key players’ form and how their absence or return could impact upcoming games. This can make the difference between successful and unsuccessful MLS bets.
Understand Team Motivations
Knowing what’s at stake in a particular match can provide valuable context for your bets. For example, a team that has already secured a playoff spot may rest key players, affecting their performance. Similarly, a team with no chance of making the playoffs might lack motivation, which could be reflected in their gameplay. Always check the league standings and understand the implications for the teams involved before placing your bet.
Focus on Key Players
Knowing about how key players play during a match will also give you a deeper betting understanding. Major players such as strikers and goalkeepers are among other factors that determine the success of an outcome of a given match. Make more precise predictions by following closely their latest games, particularly those they have lost against the possible team for your betting.
Familiarizing yourself with the above strategies can help you increase your chances of making profitable bets.
Steps for Online MLS Betting
Armed with top-notch MLS betting advice to shape your strategy, you’re ready to dive into the real action. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you put your MLS betting predictions into practice, from account creation to placing your bet.
- Register for an Account
First, you need to set up an account with any suitable Bitcoin sportsbook. Provide the details required and verify the account.
- Fund Your Account
After opening an account, you need to add Bitcoin to it before making a bet. Move to the cashier and pick the cryptocurrency you would like to deposit in.
- Opt for a Welcome Bonus
During the deposit process, you’ll often be prompted to accept a welcome bonus. While these bonuses can be beneficial, make sure to read the terms and conditions, including any rollover requirements, to fully understand what you’re committing to.
- Navigate to MLS Betting Options
With your account funded and bonus claimed, it’s time to locate your desired bet. Head over to the soccer category and look for the Major League Soccer (MLS) section. This is where you can apply your MLS betting strategy.
- Execute Your Bet
Click on the particular match and type of bet that you want and put it in the slip. The next step is to enter how much you’d like to bet and the possible returns are calculated. Instead, you can also decide to enter the amount you’d like to win from this bet and the bookie will work out how much you should be staking as a result. When you are happy with your choice, submit your bets.
Adhering to these guidelines will get you going in the right direction when placing good wagers in MLS games.
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MLS Team Composition
Currently, Major League Soccer comprises the teams that are categorized under two conferences namely the Eastern Conference and Western Conference. This league has witnessed the quicker expansion and the addition of several more teams in only a handful of recent years.
Teams in the Eastern Conference include:
- FC Cincinnati
- Orlando City SC
- Columbus Crew
- Philadelphia Union
- New England Revolution
- Atlanta United FC
- Nashville SC
- New York Red Bulls
- Charlotte FC
The Teams in the Western Conference include:
- St. Louis City SC
- Seattle Sounders FC
- Los Angeles FC
- Houston Dynamo FC
- Real Salt Lake
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC
- FC Dallas
- Sporting Kansas City
- San Jose Earthquakes
MLS teams also take part in different cup tournaments apart from the normal season and playoffs. Examples are the US Open Cup where all tiers of American Soccer teams compete and the CONCACAF Champions League with top club teams across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
In addition, different league cup rivalries among MLS teams spice up the regular season. For instance, the Hudson River Derby involves New York Red Bulls vs. New York City FC, the Cascadia Cup involves Portland Timbers and others, and the Texas Derby entails FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, and San Antonio FC among other participants. Over time, these rival cups have become an essential component of MLS.
Additional Competitions Featuring MLS Teams
As you’ve now gathered, the MLS teams are not just limited to domestic matches. Instead, it goes beyond borders and plays with different nations on an annual basis. Here’s a rundown of some of these competitions:
Domestic Tournaments
U.S. Open Cup
The tournament usually comprises 100 leading professional clubs from different US leagues such as MSL’s secondary leagues. While the US Open Cup may not be as global as some other tournaments it’s still possible to make very good money on. Many amateur clubs also partake in the early stages of the cup. The winning team qualifies for the CONCACAF Champions Cup and pockets a $300K in cash bonus. $100,000 is awarded to the first who finished second, while $25,000 is paid out to the champion from a lower division.
Canadian Championship
This event includes all three MLS teams from Canada: Vancouver Whitecaps FC, CF Montreal, and Toronto FC. They compete alongside teams from the Canadian Premier League in what has become Canada’s premier soccer tournament.
International Tournaments
CONCACAF Champions League
It’s a competition that involves teams within the Caribbean, Central America, and North America once known as the CONCACAF Champions Cup. In this case, the winner gets a straight qualification to the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup. The competition brings together the elite teams from North and Central America to determine the region’s top club.
Campeones Cup
This is an annual event that puts the MLS Cup champion against the winner of Campeón de Campeones. Established in 2018, the Campeones Cup has quickly gained traction as a notable North American soccer event.
Leagues Cup
Currently one of the major tournaments in North America, the League Cup has now included teams from both MLS and Liga MX. Recently, a deal with Fox Sports has also added to the growing prominence of the tournament. The tournament serves as a regional event for CONCACAF’s North American Zone, including Canada, with the final three teams qualifying to participate in the CONCACAF Champions League. In their competition, the winner is given a bye into the first round.
These additional tournaments offer MLS teams more avenues for competition and provide bettors with a broader scope of matches to consider.
Bet on MLS with Caution
Armed with a wealth of MLS betting insights, you need to approach betting as a form of risk-taking. Always bet within your means, even when you’re confident about the outcome. If you find yourself facing difficulties, don’t hesitate to get help from available resources.
Scoring System in MLS
In MLS, team structures are determined using points scored during the playoff games. A win gives each team three points while losing awards them with zero points but a draw wins one for either team. This makes it a simple method for ranking the best-performing teams throughout the entire season.
There are 34 matches per club during an MLS season which stretches from March through October. Every team plays twice, once at their home venue and once away. At the end of the regular season, the team that garners the highest number of points receives the Supporters’ Shield, and the top seven teams from every conference qualify for the playoff.
The point system not only ranks teams but also incentivizes them to strive for victory in every match, as winning garners more points than drawing or losing. This generates a competitive nature within teams; thus, the whole competition is regarded globally as one of the most exciting soccer competitions.
When the season ends with a few teams having the same points, then the tiebreakers will be applied to rank them. The first one is a team with more points (i.e. wins), another tiebreaker is goal differentials, and finally, if both teams have an equal number of wins, then the third one will be considered i.e. total goals scored. If teams remain tied after these criteria, additional tiebreaker matches may be played to finalize the rankings.
In summary, the point system in MLS is a cornerstone for ensuring fair and objective rankings. It not only quantifies team performance but also enhances the competitive nature of the league, making each season a must-watch event for soccer enthusiasts globally.
Rivalry Trophies
A distinctive aspect of MLS is the array of rivalry trophies that add an extra layer of excitement to the regular season. These trophies are usually contested between geographically close teams and serve as a platform for teams to assert their local supremacy. The winner is determined based on the best record in head-to-head matches during the regular season.
Notable rivalry trophies include:
- Hudson River Derby: Between New York Red Bulls and New York City FC.
- Cascadia Cup: Among Portland Timbers, Seattle Sounders, and Vancouver Whitecaps.
- Texas Derby: Among FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, and San Antonio FC.
- Rocky Mountain Cup: Between Colorado Rapids and Real Salt Lake.
- California Clasico: Between LA Galaxy and San Jose Earthquakes.
- These rivalry matches offer fans an extra reason to be passionate, beyond just rooting for their favorite team to win.
MLS Draft System
In contrast to many global soccer leagues that rely on transfers and signings to build their rosters, MLS uses a draft system. Teams select players based on their performance in college soccer or other youth competitions.
SuperDraft is an annual event held before each season that helps teams discover new talents for their respective sides. There will be four rounds in the draft and each team will receive a single pick each. This is also called the first overall pick which is a very valuable one in which the best possible player is chosen. Many MLS clubs also run academy programs to nurture talent from a young age.
While the draft system has faced criticism for its focus on college soccer, potentially limiting other pathways to professional soccer, it also offers young players a unique opportunity to showcase their abilities and secure a spot on an MLS roster.
Designated Player Rule
MLS attracts big talent from all over the world with its designated player rule. Moreover, teams can recruit three more players who earn beyond the league salary threshold and still, the excess is not included in the salary cap. The rule has contributed substantially towards bringing renowned international stars such as David Beckham, Thierry Henry, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Carlos Vela, and Josef Martinez to MLS, thereby boosting the league’s worldwide recognition.
Challenges Ahead
Nevertheless, there are challenges, such as competition against well-established American sports leagues like the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA) and Major Baseball League (MLB). Due to no promotions and relegations, the league has been criticized for not having suspense or drama as one finds with other soccer leagues.
A Summary of Major League Soccer Bitcoin Betting
The growth of Major League Soccer coupled with the arrival of international sensations like Lionel Messi has turned it into a betting hotspot. Nothing else can match Bitcoin’s disruptive force in the MLS betting industry and the convenience that MLS betting with Bitcoin provides. From rapid transactions to generous bonuses and no transaction fees, Bitcoin offers a streamlined and enhanced betting experience.
As MLS continues to expand its reach through new teams, international partnerships, and media deals, betting opportunities are also likely to grow exponentially. The fusion of MLS excitement and Bitcoin’s advantages offers a compelling platform for sports betting. However, it’s crucial to approach this with caution and responsibility, ensuring you’re well-informed before placing any bets.
As the league continues to evolve, facing both opportunities and challenges, so too will the dynamics of MLS Bitcoin betting. It’s an exhilarating time to be involved in either—or both.
FAQs
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