Bet365 Does a Header Count as a Shot? How It Works for Bettors

Bet365 does a header count as a shot is a common question with bettors placing player prop bets. A header can be included in shot statistics, but only when it's clearly an attempt on goal.

That means if the ball is headed with the intent to score—whether it forces a save, hits the post, or looks likely to go in—it may count as a shot or even a shot on target, depending on the outcome.

Understanding how Bet365’s stat providers classify these moments is key, especially for markets like shots on target or anytime goalscorer.

This article breaks down when headers count, how to track them during matches, and how to avoid common betting pitfalls.

How Bet365 defines a shot (and when headers count)

Bet365 uses third-party data providers (often Opta) to determine in-play and post-match statistics. That includes shot counts, shot on target stats, and other performance-based markets.

Here’s the deal with headers: if a player heads the ball toward goal and it would either go in or require the goalkeeper to make a save, that’s typically logged as a shot on target.

If it’s going wide or blocked before reaching the goal, it might still be marked as a shot, but not one on target.

What doesn’t count? In my experience, glancing defensive headers or flick-ons that clearly aren’t goal attempts don’t get logged as shots at all.

So, yes—a header can count as a shot on Bet365, but only if it’s a genuine attempt on goal.

Where Bet365 does a header count as a shot in player markets

One of the most common places this matters is in player props—especially “shots,” “shots on target,” and “first/last/anytime goalscorer” markets.

Let’s say you back Harry Kane to have 2+ shots on target. If he gets one off his foot and another is a well-placed header saved by the keeper, that counts as two.

But if he just nods the ball back toward midfield or glances a header off-target from a cross, only one of those might be recorded.

My tip? Always check the match stats from Bet365’s in-play feed or trusted stat sites like SofaScore or Flashscore to confirm what’s been counted. There’s often a slight delay, but Bet365 usually updates fairly quickly once the data is official.

What if the header is deflected or blocked?

This is where it gets a bit tricky. If a header is blocked before it reaches the goal and wouldn’t have gone in without the block, it may not count as a shot on target. But it could still be logged as a regular shot.

On the other hand, if a header is clearly heading toward goal and a defender stops it on the line, it often still counts as a shot on target—just not a goal.

I’ve seen cases where bettors get confused here, especially in tight games where every stat matters. Bet365 sticks to official data sources, so you might not always agree with the ruling, but it will be consistent across all bets.

How to track header shots during live games on Bet365

During live matches, Bet365 offers a live stat feed that updates with total shots, shots on target, and individual player performance. If you’re watching closely, here’s how to stay on top of it:

• Go to the in-play section and tap the game you’re watching
• Look for the “Stats” or “Player” tabs
• Scroll to see who’s taken shots, how many, and whether they were on target

Headers are not broken out separately, but any listed shot totals will include headers if they meet the shot criteria.

If you’re ever unsure, comparing Bet365 stats with a site like WhoScored or the official club apps during or after the match can help you understand discrepancies.

Final thoughts: Bet365 and header shot rules

To sum up: a header absolutely can count as a shot on Bet365, as long as it’s a genuine goal attempt. Whether it counts as “on target” depends on accuracy and the outcome (e.g., saved, blocked, goal).

In my experience, most confusion happens when people assume any contact with the head counts as a shot. But like any other body part, intent matters.

That’s why keeping an eye on live stats—and understanding how Bet365 tracks these events—gives you the best edge when betting.

And if you're placing a bet where one header might make the difference—like a “1+ shot on target” boost—make sure you're watching closely. Because sometimes, it all comes down to that one moment in the box.

FAQs

Do headers count as shots on target in Bet365 bets

Only if the header is a clear attempt to score—like one that would go in or forces a save—it’s logged as a shot on target.

How can I track header shots during a live Bet365 match

Use Bet365’s in-play stats tab to view total shots and shots on target; headers that qualify will be included in those totals.

Bet365 does a header count as a shot

Yes, but only if the header shows intent to score. Defensive or accidental headers won’t be recorded as shots.

What happens if a header is blocked before reaching goal

If the header was likely to score or force a save, it might still count as a shot or even a shot on target, depending on how it was blocked.

Can I trust Bet365’s stats for player prop bets

Bet365 uses official data providers like Opta, so their stats are consistent—even if you don’t always agree with the judgment call.