What Types of Sports Bets Do Africans Prefer?
Across the African continent, sports betting has grown from a niche activity into a massive cultural and economic force. With the rise of mobile money, accessible internet, and a booming sports fanbase, millions of Africans place bets daily — not just for profit, but for community, excitement, and pride.
But not all bets are the same, and regional preferences vary. While Western markets often lean toward complex accumulators and prop bets, African bettors show distinct habits shaped by local football culture, financial realities, and access to mobile platforms.
So, what types of bets are most popular among African users? And why are certain formats favored over others? Let’s take a closer look.
Football Remains King
Unsurprisingly, football dominates the African betting landscape. From the English Premier League to the CAF Champions League, bettors from Nigeria to Côte d’Ivoire place millions of wagers weekly on football outcomes. The connection is emotional, generational, and social.
But beyond the sport itself, the way people bet reveals even more about user behavior.
Most Popular Types of Sports Bets Among African Bettors
| Bet Type | Description | Popularity Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1X2 (Match Winner) | Simple bet on Home Win, Draw, or Away Win | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very High) |
| Over/Under Goals | Predicting if total goals in a match will be over or under X | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Both Teams to Score | Betting if both teams will score during the match | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Accumulator (Parlay) | Combining multiple bets for a higher payout | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Correct Score | Predicting the exact final score | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Live Betting | Placing bets while the match is in progress | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Double Chance | Betting on two outcomes (e.g., Win or Draw) | ⭐⭐⭐ |
This table reflects trends observed in major African markets like Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire. Simple, high-risk/high-reward bets dominate the space, while exotic or highly technical wagers remain less common — though this is gradually changing.
Why Simpler Bets Dominate
There are several reasons why bets like 1X2, Over/Under, and Accumulators are so widely favored in Africa.
First, they are easy to understand. In communities where formal betting education is rare, users rely on word-of-mouth tips, WhatsApp groups, and personal intuition. Complicated markets like “Asian Handicap” or “Player Props” are often skipped in favor of what feels more predictable.
Second, most bets are placed via mobile apps or SMS platforms, with small stakes. This encourages fast decision-making — the kind that suits straightforward bets with clear outcomes.
Third, the economic reality cannot be ignored. Many users place low-stake, high-reward bets — particularly accumulators that can turn a small wager into a life-changing win. Even though the chances of winning are low, the dream is what drives participation.
Live Betting on the Rise
Another major trend is the rapid rise of in-play (live) betting. Thanks to mobile devices and real-time streaming, more users are now placing bets after kick-off — often trying to take advantage of shifting odds and momentum.
For example, a bettor may wait to see how the first 10 minutes play out before betting on goals or corners. This more reactive, hands-on style of betting is especially appealing to experienced users.
Betting platforms that offer fast updates, low latency, and cash-out options are becoming the preferred choice in urban areas.
Regional Variations Are Emerging
While Nigeria and Kenya lean toward accumulators and Premier League betting, Francophone countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal often show stronger interest in local and French football leagues. In South Africa, meanwhile, there is more interest in rugby, cricket, and horse racing bets — thanks to historical ties and diversified sports culture.
Still, football remains the unifying core, with mobile-first access and community influence playing major roles in shaping how people engage.
Simplicity, Speed, and Emotion
African sports betting is growing fast, but its core traits remain remarkably consistent: simple bets, emotional connections to football, and fast, mobile-friendly platforms. As digital infrastructure improves and users become more informed, we may see increased interest in niche bet types and strategic wagering.
But for now, betting in Africa is as much about the feeling — the moment — as it is about the numbers. And that’s what makes it so unique.
