What is a scorecast or wincast in football betting?

A scorecast and a wincast are combination football bets that pair a match outcome with a goal-scorer prediction. A scorecast asks for the exact final score and a scorer, while a wincast only needs you to pick the winning team and a player to score. Both offer higher odds than single bets but carry more risk.

These bets are popular with UK punters because they deliver big returns from small stakes and make watching a match more exciting. They also require different thinking to standard match bets, you must judge both the likely winner and which player will score, so form, team news and playing style matter.

Also Read: How to bet on the Premier League: markets and strategy

How a scorecast works

A scorecast combines an exact-score bet with a first-goal (or anytime-goal) scorer. To win, both parts must be correct. For example, if you back Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea & Bukayo Saka to score, you only collect if Arsenal win 2–1 and Saka scores (as specified by the market — first or anytime).

Types of scorecast

• First scorer scorecast: Predicts the exact score and who scores first.
• Anytime scorecast: Predicts the exact score and a player who scores at any time in the match.

How a wincast works

A wincast is simpler: you pick a winning team and a player to score during the match. You win if your team wins and your chosen player scores (usually anytime). You do not have to predict the exact scoreline, so wincasts are easier to hit and usually pay less than scorecasts.

Also Read: How to calculate your returns from a treble bet? Here is a simple guide

Example of a wincast

Example: Bet on Liverpool to win & Mohamed Salah to score. If Liverpool win and Salah scores at any time, the bet pays. If Liverpool draw or lose, or Salah does not score, you lose.

Odds and payouts

Odds for scorecasts are typically higher because you need two correct predictions (score + scorer). Wincasts offer lower odds but better probability. Bookmakers calculate combined odds by multiplying the underlying markets, then apply their margin. Small stakes can return attractive sums, which is why these bets appeal to casual and value-seeking punters alike.

Strategy: how to pick sensible scorecasts and wincasts

Use a mix of match context and player-specific factors:

• Form and fitness: Is the player starting? Recent goals? Any knocks?
• Team strength: Which side dominates possession and chances?
• Match-up: Does the opponent have defensive weaknesses your scorer can exploit?
• Set-pieces and penalties: Players who take penalties or free-kicks have higher anytime scoring chances.
• Market moves: Watch early price shifts, sharp money on a player can signal value.

Risks and pitfalls

Scorecasts and wincasts are fun but risky. Main pitfalls include:

• Uncertain line-ups: Late team news can ruin a bet if your player is rested.
• Low-probability events: Exact-score calls are hard to predict consistently.
• Overstaked punts: Chasing big returns with large stakes frequently ends badly.

Tip: Consider small stakes or part-staking strategies, and always manage your bankroll.

When to use a scorecast or wincast

Use them when one player stands out as a likely scorer and the team is expected to win. Wincasts suit matches where you feel confident about the winner but aren’t sure of the exact score. Scorecasts suit games where you can reasonably forecast the scoreline and a likely scorer — for instance, when a top striker is in form and facing a weak defence.

Alternatives to consider

If you want lower risk, try these alternatives:

• Single bets on goalscorer (anytime) — simpler and cheaper than a wincast or scorecast.
• Match outcome + over/under goals — predicts winner and total goals rather than specific scorers.
• Bet builder — some bookies let you combine multiple selections for customized value without extreme odds.

Responsible betting

These markets can be tempting because of big returns. Bet only what you can afford to lose. Use limits, cool-off tools and self-exclusion services if gambling harms your life. The UK Gambling Commission requires licensed operators to promote safer gambling, make use of those tools.

FAQs

What is the difference between a scorecast and a wincast?

A scorecast requires predicting an exact scoreline plus a scorer. A wincast only needs a winning team and a scorer. Scorecasts pay more but are harder to win.

Can I place a scorecast on the first goal scorer?

Yes, some markets specifically require the named player to be first scorer.

Check the market rules before staking. Do scorecasts pay more than doubles or trebles?

Often they do, because a scorecast links two related predictions (score and scorer). Combined market odds can beat a simple double, but compare prices across bookies.

What happens if my chosen player is substituted before scoring?

If the player does not score, the bet loses, substitutions don’t void the market unless the bookmaker cancels the event. Always confirm the rules on your bet slip.

Are scorecasts available on all bookmakers?

Most major UK bookies offer these markets, but availability and exact rules vary. Some smaller firms may not list scorecasts or may limit large stakes.