BetOnline Does a Header Count as a Shot? What Bettors Need to Know

On BetOnline, a header is counted as a shot only if it’s clearly intended as an effort to score—like when it’s on target or forces a save.

It’s not enough for a player to simply make contact with the ball using their head; what matters is whether the action was purposeful and directed toward goal. That’s why some bets get tripped up on what seems obvious during a match.

For certain scenarios, such as BetOnline does a header count as a shot, the context and type of header make all the difference. Understanding how these calls are made can help you avoid surprises when your player props settle.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how BetOnline defines a shot, what stat sources they trust, and how to better assess headers when placing your bets.

How BetOnline defines a shot (including headers)

When you place a player prop like “Over 1.5 shots” on BetOnline, you’re relying on their data provider’s interpretation of what counts as a shot. A header is included only if it’s purposeful and directed toward goal.

Here’s the key: it must either be on target or reasonably considered an attempt to score.

For example, a looping header from a corner that sails into the keeper’s hands is typically counted. A flicked-on header in midfield or a defensive clearance—even if accidental—is not.

I've seen bettors caught off guard because they saw a player make contact with the ball using their head, only for it not to register. It really comes down to intent and direction.

Where BetOnline gets its shot data

BetOnline doesn’t manually track shots—it relies on official stat providers like Opta or a similar feed used across the industry.

These companies have strict criteria for what counts as a shot, and that directly influences how your bets are graded.

So even if a TV commentator calls it a shot, or a fan site shows a player with 3 shot attempts, BetOnline only honors what’s recorded in the official data stream.

That’s especially important when it comes to headers, since there’s more gray area than with footed strikes.

BetOnline does a header count as a shot on target

If it’s on target—yes. A headed attempt that forces a save, hits the post, or results in a goal is always a shot on target in BetOnline’s system.

What I’ve seen trip people up is when a player glances a header wide or over the bar. Those are still usually counted as shots, just not shots on target.

But again, the nuance is in whether the action was clearly a scoring attempt. A back-post header across goal that was clearly meant as a pass? That likely won’t be logged.

If you’re betting player shots or SOTs (shots on target), the difference between a goal-bound header and a hopeful flick really matters.

What to do if a header doesn’t count and you disagree

Sometimes, you’ll swear you saw a header that should have been logged—but it didn’t register, and you may wonder what happens if a bet is void on BetOnline due to discrepancies.

In those cases, BetOnline’s support team can clarify the source of the data.

In my experience, they’ll always refer back to what the official stat feed recorded, which also plays a role in how long it takes for BetOnline to verify your account and grade bets.

You can double-check yourself by using trusted stat-tracking sites that mirror the same data (like WhoScored or SofaScore), but ultimately, BetOnline won’t override the provider’s call.

It’s frustrating, I know—but it’s how consistency is maintained across all players and matches.

Betting tips for player headers and shots on BetOnline

If you’re regularly betting player shot props, especially on forwards or defenders who get on the end of crosses, it’s worth paying attention to how they take their shots.

Some players rely heavily on headers—target men, center backs during set pieces, or tall wingers.

Here’s what I’ve found helpful:

• Check the average shot breakdown of the player—some have a high % of headers, which come with more variance
• Watch full match replays when possible to get a feel for what the player tries to do, not just the stat line
• Don’t assume every headed contact equals a stat—if the player wasn’t clearly going for goal, it probably won’t count

In short, when you’re banking on headers, you’re adding a layer of risk. But with the right player and matchup, it can also mean finding value where others overlook it.

Final thoughts: BetOnline and header shot rules

So, to recap: Yes, a header can count as a shot on BetOnline, but it has to be a clear attempt at goal. Accidental deflections or directional flicks won’t make the cut.

When betting player props, especially shots or shots on target, always consider how often that player uses their head to finish chances—and whether those chances are true attempts.

If you ever have a dispute, go straight to BetOnline support with evidence. But keep in mind they’ll default to the official feed. Knowing the criteria ahead of time can save you some serious frustration.

Got more questions about BetOnline betting markets or how stats are tracked? I’m happy to help clarify.

FAQs

Does a header count as a shot on BetOnline?

Yes, a header counts as a shot if it's clearly intended as a goal attempt, whether it's on target or not.

What makes a header count as a shot on target?

A header must force a save, hit the post, or go in to qualify as a shot on target in BetOnline’s system.

Who decides if a header counts as a shot on BetOnline?

BetOnline uses official stat providers like Opta, and only their data determines whether a header is logged as a shot.

What should I do if a header doesn’t get counted?

If a header you expected to count wasn’t recorded, you can contact BetOnline support, but they rely entirely on the official stat feed.

How can I bet smarter on player headers at BetOnline?

Look for players with a high percentage of headed shots and watch full match replays to understand their attacking patterns.