With so many top leagues around the world, each featuring the best teams in the country, it’s no surprise that soccer’s second-tier leagues are often overlooked. England seems to have bucked the trend, however, as the English Championship has earned its reputation as one of the most entertaining leagues in world soccer.
While the quality of soccer might not compare to the elite competitions in Europe, teams in the Championship are no joke – just ask the newly relegated ex-Premier League teams, who often struggle to find success in this highly competitive league.
The battle for promotion at the top of the table, the fight for survival at the other end, and their unpredictable nature make the Championship an excellent option for bettors. With many games so tightly contested and upsets across the fixture list every week, picking the right sportsbook could land you a huge payout! With so many to choose from, it can be a daunting task, so we’ve done the hard work for you – our impartial reviews and beginner’s guide to Championship soccer betting are sure to help find the right bookmaker for you!
Beginner’s Guide to Championship Soccer betting
What, Where and When?
The Championship season runs annually from August through May. The league comprises 24 teams, each from England or Wales. Each team plays twice against its competitors in the league, once at home and once away.
Who to Back?
Unlike the Premier League, there are no perennial top-four finishers in the Championship – the best clubs earn a promotion each year. As a result, picking a winning bet on the Championship can be a tough task. Going with your gut can get you a few lucky wins, but the best bets are those made based on pre-match research. Reviewing recent form, head-to-head stats and league table standings can go a long way in helping you pick a winning bet.
Market Depth
While the Premier League might have the Championship beat for quality, the second tier can hang with the big boys when it comes to market depth. The best bookmakers offer over 100 betting options, including the most popular markets such as match result, over 2.5 goals and both teams to score. You’ll also find combination markets like both teams to score and match result, which can often result in huge payouts.
