Esports, or competitive video gaming, has seen a meteoric rise in popularity over the past decade. With this surge, esports betting has also gained significant traction, especially among the younger generation. For African punters new to this domain, the allure of esports betting is undeniable. However, like all forms of betting, it comes with its pitfalls. This article aims to highlight the common mistakes new esports bettors make and offers guidance on how to sidestep them.
Lack of Game Knowledge
Mistake: Diving into esports betting without a solid understanding of the game in question.
Example: Betting on a ‘Counter-Strike: Global Offensive’ (CS:GO) match without knowing the significance of map choices or player roles can lead to uninformed decisions.
Solution: Spend time watching the game, understanding its mechanics, and following major tournaments. Platforms like Twitch or YouTube offer countless hours of gameplay and expert analysis.
Over-relying on Team Reputation
Mistake: Betting on teams based solely on their past reputation or achievements.
Example: A top team from last season might not be in form this season due to roster changes or internal issues.
Solution: Stay updated with recent team performances, player transfers, and any behind-the-scenes news that might affect gameplay.
Ignoring the Importance of Strategy and Meta
Mistake: Overlooking the strategic aspect of esports and the ever-evolving ‘meta’ or optimal strategy.
Example: In games like ‘League of Legends’, the meta can shift with new patches, rendering previously dominant teams less effective.
Solution: Regularly check game updates, patch notes, and forums to understand the current meta and how teams are adapting.
Chasing Losses
Mistake: Trying to recover losses by hastily placing larger bets without proper analysis.
Example: After losing a bet on a sure-win match, a punter doubles their stake on the next game to recoup losses, only to lose again.
Solution: Maintain a steady betting strategy. Accept losses as part of the journey and avoid emotional betting.
Failing to Manage Bankroll
Mistake: Not setting a budget or staking more than one can afford to lose.
Example: A bettor uses a significant portion of their savings hoping for a big win, only to face substantial losses.
Solution: Set aside a specific amount for betting – your bankroll. Stake only a small percentage of this bankroll on individual bets, ensuring longevity and minimizing risks.
Overvaluing Odds
Mistake: Assuming that higher odds always offer better value.
Example: Betting on an underdog with high odds without considering the actual probability of them winning.
Solution: Understand that odds are set by bookmakers based on various factors, including public perception. Look for value bets where your analysis differs from the implied probability of the odds.
Neglecting Non-game Factors
Mistake: Focusing solely on in-game performance and ignoring external factors.
Example: Not considering the impact of a team traveling to a different time zone for a tournament or internal team disputes that might affect performance.
Solution: Stay updated with esports news, team interviews, and social media to get a holistic view of a team’s condition.
Sticking to One Bookmaker
Mistake: Loyally betting with a single bookmaker without comparing odds.
Example: Using only Betway for all esports bets without checking if bet365 or 1xBet offers better odds for the same match.
Solution: Use odds comparison sites and maintain accounts on multiple reputable bookmakers to ensure you always get the best value.
Falling for Hype and Public Sentiment
Mistake: Getting swayed by public opinion or media hype around a team or player.
Example: A popular streamer predicts Team A will win, causing a surge of bets on Team A, even if statistics and recent performances suggest otherwise.
Solution: Trust your research and analysis over public sentiment. Often, the majority can be wrong.
Not Reviewing and Learning
Mistake: Not reflecting on past bets, both wins, and losses, to understand what went right or wrong.
Solution: Maintain a betting diary. Review your bets, understand your mistakes, and continuously refine your betting strategy.
For African punters eager to venture into this realm, understanding these common mistakes and their remedies can pave the way for a more informed and profitable betting journey. Remember, in the world of betting, continuous learning and adaptation are key.