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Term
3-Way Moneyline
Quick Summary
A 3-way moneyline is a betting market that offers three possible outcomes: home win, away win, or draw. It is used in sports where ties can occur in regulation, such as soccer and hockey. This article explains how 3-way moneylines differ from 2-way markets, where they apply across different sports, and what to consider before placing a bet.
What Is a 3-Way Moneyline?
A 3-way moneyline offers three outcomes for a match:
- Team A wins
- Team B wins
- Draw (after regulation)
This differs from traditional moneylines (2-way), which offer only two outcomes and usually include overtime or shootouts.
3-way bets are graded based solely on regulation time. Overtime and extra time are not factored into the result. If you pick the draw and the match is tied after regulation, your bet wins—even if a team wins later in overtime.
3-Way vs. 2-Way Moneylines
3-Way Moneyline:
- Three outcomes: Team A, Team B, or Draw
- Based on regulation time only
- Common in soccer, hockey, and sometimes football
2-Way Moneyline:
- Two outcomes: Team A or Team B
- May include overtime or shootouts
- More common in sports like basketball or American football
How It Works Across Different Sports
Soccer
The most common sport for 3-way betting. Bets are settled after 90 minutes plus stoppage time. Draw is a frequent outcome.
Example:
- Sporting KC +155
- Draw +120
- FC Dallas +285
If the match is tied at halftime and you bet “Draw +120” on the 1st half market, your bet wins even if one team later wins the match.
Hockey
3-way moneylines appear as “60-Minute Line” or “Regulation Time” markets. These exclude overtime and shootouts.
Example:
- Florida Panthers +170
- Draw +310
- Edmonton Oilers +115
If the score is tied after regulation, draw bets win—regardless of overtime results.
Football (American)
Less common, but 3-way markets may be available for regulation time only.
Example:
- Bills +120
- Draw +800
- Bengals +105
If tied after four quarters, draw bets win, even if one team wins in overtime.
Benefits of 3-Way Moneyline Betting
- Higher Payouts – Odds for each outcome tend to be longer than 2-way markets
- Defined Results – No ambiguity or pushes; bets are settled based on clear outcomes
- More Strategy in Draw-Prone Sports – Especially useful in soccer and hockey
- Flexibility – Can apply to full time, first half, second half, etc.
- Risk-Reward Balance – Offers more value potential at the cost of higher variance
How to Bet 3-Way Moneylines Effectively
- Look for Draw Value
Use historical data to identify where draws are common. Rivalries, defensive matchups, or tight schedules can increase draw probability.
- Confirm Market Rules
Make sure you’re betting on regulation-time outcomes—not results including overtime or penalties.
- Compare Against 2-Way Markets
Evaluate whether the odds justify the added risk. Use implied probability to compare value.
- Use in Parlays Cautiously
A single draw can spoil your ticket. Only include when the edge is clear.
- Focus on Regulation Dynamics
Analyze how teams perform during standard time. Some teams excel in overtime but struggle to close games in regulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a draw a loss if I bet on a team to win?
Yes, unless you specifically bet on the draw. A team bet loses if the match ends in a tie.
Why do sportsbooks offer 3-way moneylines?
Because many sports allow draws. It also lets sportsbooks price each outcome—including the draw—individually.
Can I use 3-way moneylines in parlays?
Yes, but with caution. Draws are harder to predict and increase parlay volatility.
Is 3-way better than 2-way betting?
It depends on your goals. 3-way offers more risk and higher reward, while 2-way offers simpler outcomes with fewer surprises.
Is this a good market for beginners?
Yes, if you understand how draws impact the outcome. Beginners should take care with bankroll management due to the added risk.
Learn More
Visit The Advantage for more articles that break down how betting markets function and where bettors can find real, data-backed edges.