Betting odds on SportPesa indicate the likelihood of an event happening and determine how much you can win if your bet succeeds.
How betting odds work
Betting odds are a numerical representation of probability. They show how likely an outcome is and how much you can win if your bet is successful
For example, the probability that Real Madrid will beat Barcelona in the El Clasico could be 1.5 while the chances of getting beaten could be 2.4 with a draw being 2.1.
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Decimal odds
This format that uses decimals is the most common in Kenya.
Decimal odds represent the total return of the bet, including what was risked, for every stake wagered.
For example, SportPesa has odds of 2.43 on Spain beating Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, Draw(2.97), and Argentina to win at (3.41). So a person who bet with 10 shillings on Spain at 2.43 had a potential payout of 24.3 (10 initial stake x 2.43 decimal odds). This payout includes the 10 initial stake.
Key Formulas
- Total Return = Stake × Decimal Odds
- Profit = Stake × (Decimal Odds − 1)
For instance, a 50 bet at decimal odds of 3.50 would return 175 in total, with a profit of 125
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Advantages of Decimal Odds
Simplicity: Easy to calculate total returns and profits with basic multiplication
Global Standard: Widely used in Europe, Canada, Australia, and betting exchanges worldwide
Comparison-Friendly: Makes it easier to compare betting opportunities and spot value bets
Fraction Conversion: Decimal odds can be converted from fractional odds (e.g., 5/2 = 3.50 decimal) and are easier to interpret than American odds.
Interpreting the Odds
Odds above 2.00 indicate an underdog, meaning the outcome is less likely to occur, but the payout is higher.
Odds below 2.00 indicate a favorite, meaning the outcome is more likely, but the payout is smaller.
Odds of exactly 2.00 represent an even-money bet, where the potential profit equals your stake