In the world of sports betting, most newcomers enter without a clear strategy — just instincts, luck, and a lot of hope. But as time passes, many look to structured betting systems for a more disciplined approach. Among the most common are the Martingale system, chasing losses (also called “dogon”), and betting on favorites.
Each of these has its own risks and appeal, but all share one thing in common: they are rooted in patterns and probability, not just guesses.
Let’s break down how each one works, when they can be used, and why it’s important to understand their limits.
What Is the Martingale System?
The Martingale strategy comes from the world of gambling and roulette. The core idea is simple: double your bet after every loss so that your first win recovers all previous losses and gives a profit equal to the original stake.
Example:
- Bet 1: $10 → lose
- Bet 2: $20 → lose
- Bet 3: $40 → lose
- Bet 4: $80 → win → profit = $10 total
It seems mathematically reliable, but there’s a catch. It requires a big bankroll and has a high risk of quickly escalating stakes. One bad run can empty your account or hit the bookmaker’s limit.
Chasing Losses (Dogon): Risky Business
Chasing losses is a psychological trap many fall into often without realizing it. Also known as “dogon,” this method involves increasing bet size after a loss to recover previous defeats.
While it can be systematic (like Martingale), most bettors chase emotionally which is dangerous.
Typical Signs of Chasing:
- Placing a large bet right after a big loss
- Ignoring your strategy or bankroll rules
- Choosing random matches just to recover
Experienced bettors warn: chasing leads to poor decision-making and often larger losses. It’s better to stop, breathe, and return with a fresh plan.
Betting on Favorites: Safe or Illusion?
Betting on favorites feels safer. After all, strong teams are expected to win, right? But bookmakers know this — and odds reflect the public’s bias.
While favorite bets win more often, they don’t always offer value. A $1.30 odd might win 70% of the time, but one loss can wipe out several wins.
When Betting on Favorites Makes Sense:
- You’ve researched team form and motivation
- The favorite is underrated due to recent results
- You combine them in small-value accumulators (parlays)
Table: Comparing the Three Strategies
| Strategy | Risk Level | Requires Big Bankroll? | Emotionally Driven? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martingale | High | Yes | No (if planned) | Short-term risk takers |
| Chasing Losses | Very High | Often Yes | Yes | Avoid if possible |
| Betting Favorites | Medium | No | Sometimes | Casual bettors |
Tips for Using These Strategies Wisely
Every strategy has its time and place — but none is foolproof. Here’s how to stay smart:
- Set a clear bankroll and stick to a unit size
- Avoid chasing when you’re emotional
- Look for value, not just likely winners
- Track your bets to understand what works
- Know when to stop — no system guarantees profit
Martingale, chasing losses, and betting on favorites all stem from the desire to “beat the odds.” While each approach offers a way to organize your betting, they come with risks that should never be ignored.
Whether you’re testing out Martingale with caution, backing strong favorites after proper research, or learning from your own chasing mistakes what matters most is discipline.
Sports betting isn’t about shortcuts; it’s about smart choices, self-control, and learning over time. Use strategies wisely, and you’ll enjoy the journey a lot more win or lose.