How to set up a football prediction league in 5 steps

A football prediction league is the easiest way to make every matchday matter with friends, family or colleagues. You create a private pool, everyone predicts the scores, and Sportspoule updates the live standings for you. This starter guide shows how to set up a free football prediction league in five steps — on web, iOS and Android.

Looking for tips to keep a friends group engaged? Read football prediction game with friends.

Why start a football prediction league?

• More excitement on every matchday — every goal moves the table in your pool.

• Competition without admin — no spreadsheet scoring; Sportspoule handles livescores and points.

• Free for small groups — up to 15 players at no cost.

Step 1 – Choose your competition

Pick the league or cup your group actually watches. Popular choices:

• Premier League

• Champions League

• Eredivisie

• FA Cup, Championship, La Liga, Serie A and more

Tip: Start before the next matchday so everyone has time to join and predict.

Step 2 – Create your free pool

Go to sportspoule.com/en or open the app:

1. Tap Create a free pool

2. Sign in with email, Apple or Google

3. Give the pool a clear name, for example “Friday Night Predictors” or “Office PL 26/27”

Step 3 – Agree the scoring (already built in)

Sportspoule uses a fixed, transparent scoring system so there are no disputes later:

• 5 points for the exact score

• 2 points for the correct result (win/draw/loss)

• 0 points otherwise

Only the 90 minutes count. Predictions stay open until 1 minute before kickoff. Knockout rounds are added automatically when a tournament reaches that stage.

Step 4 – Invite your group

Share one invite link in WhatsApp, Slack or email. Friends can join mid-season, so latecomers are welcome. For offices with more than 15 players, use a business package (own logo, sub-pools, CSV import on Pro).

Step 5 – Predict and follow live

Fill in your scores before each match, then watch the standings move with the livescores. Push notifications and iOS Live Activities keep the match on your lock screen. Over 20,000 predictions are made on Sportspoule every week.

Frequently asked questions

How do I set up a football prediction league for free?

Create a pool on Sportspoule, pick a competition, invite up to 15 friends with one link, and start predicting. No card and no deposit.

Can we play more than one competition?

Yes. Many groups run a Premier League league all season and add the Champions League or a cup alongside it.

Is Sportspoule only for football?

Yes. Sportspoule is football only — a social football community app with pools, livescores and player/match data.

What devices are supported?

Web, iOS and Android, so mixed groups can all join.

Start your football prediction league

Ready in minutes: open Sportspoule, create your pool and invite your group. A strong place to begin is the Premier League predictor.