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Forecasting football match results: Are the many smarter than the few?

Author

Listed:
  • García, Jaume
  • Pérez, Levi
  • Rodríguez, Plácido

Abstract

An empirical analysis of Spanish football betting odds is carried out here to test whether football matches final result estimates by experts (bookmakers) differ (better/worse) from those by the ‘crowd’ (football pools bettors). Examination of implied probabilities for each of the possible outcomes evidences the existence of favourite long-shot bias in the betting market for Spanish football. A further study of the accuracy of probability forecasts concludes that experts seem to be better in forecasting football results than the ‘crowd’.

Suggested Citation

  • García, Jaume & Pérez, Levi & Rodríguez, Plácido, 2016. "Forecasting football match results: Are the many smarter than the few?," MPRA Paper 69687, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:69687
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Jaume García & Plácido Rodríguez, 2007. "The Demand for Football Pools in Spain," Journal of Sports Economics, , vol. 8(4), pages 335-354, August.
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    JEL classification:

    • C53 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Forecasting and Prediction Models; Simulation Methods
    • L83 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Sports; Gambling; Restaurants; Recreation; Tourism

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