Goalkeeper saves markets allow punters to bet on how many shots a named goalkeeper will stop during a match, independent of the final score. The market appears in the player props or specials section on the best betting sites, alongside cards and corners markets.
How goalkeeper saves betting works
There are two common markets for goalkeeper saves: a straight over/under at a set line for saves (for example over 2.5 saves), and most saves in the match, which is a head-to-head between the two keepers. Only shots on target that the keeper stops count towards tallies for both markets; blocks by defenders do not count.
Goalkeeper saves markets on football betting sites are usually settled on full-time data, so extra time and penalties in cup ties do not add to the count.
Worked example
In a hypothetical situation, a mid-table goalkeeper is starting against a title-chasing away side. The suggested line is set at over/under 3.5 saves. A bettor might back the over if they reckon the home side will be under pressure and face a lot of shots on target.
What affects a goalkeeper's saves total
Several factors should be weighed up when betting on this market. Not only is the goalkeeper's own form important, but the opponent's shot volume and quality should also be considered. A goalkeeper may not have a high number of actual saves, but his save percentage may be quite high, indicating that he is a strong shot-stopper playing behind a strong defence that prevents shots on goal.
Goalkeeper saves lines often move opposite to clean sheet odds; a leaky defence can still mean a busy, high-saves keeper.
Where to find goalkeeper saves markets
Goalkeeper saves markets can be found in the player specials section on a bookmaker's match page, usually grouped with cards and corners specials. Some UK betting apps may even have a separate section just for goalkeeper-related markets. Bettors interested in trying a goalkeeper saves bet without risking much money could consider claiming free bet offers to place a wager and get a taste for the market.
Bettors are reminded to always gamble responsibly by using the safer gambling tools available on betting sites. Setting a budget, taking regular breaks, and not chasing losses is also recommended. Betting should only be viewed as a source of entertainment, never as a reliable income. More information is available via GambleAware, GamCare, Gamblers Anonymous and the NHS.
FAQs
What is goalkeeper saves in betting? Goalkeeper saves markets allow punters to bet on how many shots a named goalkeeper will stop during a match. It is primarily associated with football, but can extend into other sports.
Do saves from penalty shootouts count? No. Most bookmakers settle goalkeeper saves markets on 90 minutes plus stoppage time only, excluding shootouts. This also excludes saves made in extra time, although certain bookmakers may run promotions that count extra time. Bettors should check with their chosen bookmaker for exact terms.
Can I bet on saves for a specific goalkeeper by name? Yes. Prior to kick-off most major bookmakers list the market as 'home goalkeeper' or 'away goalkeeper', before offering named player props for the confirmed starting keeper once teams are announced.
