How to play Sportstake in South Africa

Sportstake is a popular sports prediction game run by the South African National Lottery.

The main goal is to predict the outcomes of various soccer matches to win a share of the prize pool. It is an engaging way for soccer enthusiasts to test their knowledge and potentially win money.

How to play Sportstake: Understanding the rules of the game

1. Basics of the Game

Sportstake involves predicting the results of soccer matches.

There are different versions of the game, including Sportstake 13, Sportstake 8, and Sportstake 4.

• Sportstake 13: Predict the outcomes of 13 matches.
• Sportstake 8: Predict the outcomes of the first half and second half of 8 matches.
• Sportstake 4: Predict the outcomes of the first half and full-time of 4 matches​.

2. How to Play

• Get a Fixture List: Obtain the fixture list for the upcoming matches. These are available online, at lottery retailers, or through the lottery app. Fixture lists are updated every Monday and Friday​.
• Make Predictions: For each match, mark ‘1’ for a home win, ‘X’ for a draw, and ‘2’ for an away win. You can also use the Multi-Play option to select multiple outcomes for each match, increasing your chances but also the cost.
• Submit and Pay: Submit your completed bet slip to a retailer or play online. Each board costs R2. If using Multi-Play, the cost will increase accordingly​​.

What are the odds of winning in Sportstake?

The odds of winning vary depending on the version of the game and the number of correct predictions required:

• Sportstake 13: The odds of winning the jackpot (all 13 matches correct) are quite high, but prizes are also awarded for 10, 11, and 12 correct predictions.
• Sportstake 8: Prizes are awarded for 13, 14, 15, and 16 correct predictions, with the highest prize for all 16 outcomes correct​.
• Sportstake 4: To win, you need to predict the first-half and full-time results correctly. Prizes are awarded for different levels of correct predictions​.

How to collect Sportstake prizes

• Retailer: If you win, small prizes can be collected directly from the retailer where you purchased your ticket.
• Online: If you play online, winnings are usually deposited into your online account.
• Large Prizes: For larger prizes, you might need to visit a lottery office or follow specific claim procedures. Always check the official rules for claiming prizes​.

Sportstake draws take place twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays. Make sure to submit your predictions before the closing time on draw days to participate

Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be a fun and exciting activity, but it’s important to approach it responsibly.

If you find yourself spending more time or money on gambling than you can afford, or if it’s affecting your relationships or daily life, it might be time to seek help. Here are some tips and resources to ensure responsible gambling:

Tips for Responsible Gambling

1. Set Limits: Decide on a budget and stick to it. Never gamble with money that you need for essential expenses.
2. Time Management: Set a time limit for your gambling activities and stick to it.
3. Stay Informed: Understand the odds and the rules of the games you play.
4. Balance: Ensure that gambling is just one of many leisure activities you engage in.
5. Seek Help: If gambling starts to become a problem, seek help early.

Useful South African Hotlines and Resources

If you or someone you know needs help with gambling addiction, there are several resources available in South Africa:

1. National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP):
   • Helpline: 0800 006 008
   • Website: www.responsiblegambling.org.za
   • The NRGP provides free, confidential counselling and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.
2. South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA):
   • Helpline: 011 892 3829
   • Website: www.sancanational.org.za
   • SANCA offers support for a variety of addictions, including gambling.
3. Lifeline South Africa:
   • Helpline: 0861 322 322
   • Website: www.lifelinesa.co.za
   • Lifeline provides 24-hour counselling and support services for individuals facing various crises, including gambling addiction.
4. Gamblers Anonymous South Africa:
   • Helpline: 072 211 7107
   • Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.za
   • A fellowship of individuals who share their experiences to help themselves and others recover from problem gambling.