Does a Goal Count as a Shot on Target In Betting?
If you’re new to football betting, or even if you’ve placed a few bets before, you might have come across the term “shots on target” and wondered exactly what it means. One of the most common questions is: do goals count as shots on target?
In this blog post, we’ll break down what counts as a shot on target, how goals and other types of plays fit into that definition, and why it matters when it comes to betting. By understanding these terms clearly, you’ll be better prepared if you’re placing bets or analysing a game’s stats.
Read on to learn more.
What Is a Shot on Target?
In football betting and statistics, a shot on target is any attempt to score that:
- Goes into the goal (i.e. results in a goal)
- Would have gone in if it hadn’t been stopped by the goalkeeper
This can include kicks, headers, or any legal use of the body (excluding arms and hands). However, shots that hit the post or crossbar and bounce back out do not count as shots on target unless the goalkeeper makes a save in the process.
Understanding this distinction helps both fans and bettors track player and team performance more accurately—especially when placing bets on stats-based markets.
Can a Shot on Target Be a Goal?
Yes—a goal is always counted as a shot on target.
If a player shoots and the ball goes into the net without the goalkeeper stopping it, it meets all the conditions: it’s an attempt to score, it was on target, and it resulted in a goal.
So, if you’re looking at stats during a match or have placed a bet and are checking your bet slip, any goal scored will also count toward the total number of shots on target.
Does an Own Goal Count as a Shot on Target?
No, own goals are not considered shots on target in official statistics or betting markets.
An own goal occurs when a player accidentally puts the ball into their own net. Since the attacking team didn’t create the shot and the goal wasn’t intentional from their side, it doesn’t meet the criteria.
Even though own goals can impact the scoreline, they do not count toward shots on target totals, which is important to know if you’ve placed a bet involving this stat.
Does a Headed Goal Count as a Shot on Target?
Yes, a headed goal counts as a shot on target.
In football, players can score with various parts of the body (excluding the arms and hands). If a player scores with a header, it still qualifies as a valid and intentional attempt on goal. As long as it results in a goal or is saved by the goalkeeper, it’s recorded as a shot on target.
So, whether it’s from a powerful strike or a glancing header, a goal is always a shot on target.
Bet on Shots on Target at Bet442
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.