The world of betting is gaining increasing influence and popularity in football and sports in general. This time, we’re going to talk about one of the most relevant terms in the world of betting: the handicap.
A handicap is a type of bet in which a fictitious initial advantage or disadvantage is given to one team over another. It is used to equalize the odds between the two teams.
There are two types of handicaps: the European handicap and the Asian handicap.
It only has 2 possible selections, and betting on a tie is not allowed; if the result after the handicap is a tie, the bet is returned.
Types of Handicap
As mentioned previously, there are two types of handicaps: the European handicap and the Asian handicap. The main differences between European handicap and Asian handicap betting are the following:
- The European handicap is a type of bet in which we can either win or lose.
- In Asian handicap betting, we can get our bet money back depending on which handicap line we selected.
We’ll show you how it works:
European Handicap
In this type of bet, if we select the odds for Argentina (2.50), the scoreboard starts with -2 goals against, so for the bet to be won, we need Argentina to win by at least 3 goals.
For example, if the result is 4-1, the handicap bet would be 2-1 in favor (after subtracting the 2 handicap goals).
Asian Handicap
This bet allows you to bet on a tie; for this reason, half units (0.5) are usually added or subtracted so that a tie does not occur.
It’s very common in basketball to give an underdog +5.5 points while subtracting -5.5 points from the favorite. This lowers the underdog’s odds and raises the favorite’s, making both teams more even.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Betting with a Handicap
Handicap presence in betting not only adds excitement to events that seem like predetermined outcomes but also allows for better odds to be found for favored teams whose chances are usually low. The handicap adds an extra layer of difficulty.
In other words, its main advantage is that we can find better odds for the favorite in a match. Let’s take a fictional game of Brazil vs Peru. If Brazil’s victory over Peru pays 1.25, Brazil’s victory with a handicap (-1) would pay 1.70, and with a handicap (-2) even more.
Conversely, it also allows betting on the underdog. In the same example, a Peru victory over Brazil would pay 8.00. Something unlikely to happen. But a ‘Peru victory with a handicap (+2)’ would be a viable and attractive bet, with odds of 1.80.
As for the disadvantages, they are more related to understanding them, especially for Asians. If you don’t fully understand how they work, it’s advisable not to use this type of betting.
Another disadvantage is that, by adding fictitious values, one can lose track of who is favored over the other, especially in a match between evenly matched teams.
How to Use Handicaps to Maximize Your Winnings
The use of handicaps in sports betting is directly related to the bettor’s experience. It’s a complex betting market where you have to play with hypothetical situations. Here are some essential tips:
- Start by betting on Europeans; they’re simpler. Whenever there’s a clear favorite in the odds, check the payout for their ‘handicap win’. You’ll likely find better odds.
- Wins by weaker teams with handicaps can also be profitable. As we saw in the example of Peru’s victory over Brazil, with a +3 handicap in favor of the Peruvians. The odds for the weaker team are reduced, but it remains attractive.
- If you’re going to bet on Asian teams, then you need to understand the dynamics of this market very well. Combinations of ‘handicap wins’ for home teams—who are heavy favorites—offer very attractive odds.
- It’s not advisable, at least for beginners, to bet with a handicap when teams of similar strength are facing each other, or when the odds for the final result are even.
When to Use Handicap Betting
Handicap bets are particularly useful when the 1X2 odds for a favorite or underdog are too low or too high, respectively. Predicting that the favorite will win, despite being at a disadvantage from the start, can result in a larger payout because you’re taking a greater risk. Conversely, a handicap bet on an underdog winning after gaining an advantage allows you to avoid unnecessary risk while still securing a decent payout.
A smart strategy is to compare 1X2 odds with those of the various options in the handicap section. The odds of an underdog with a small advantage may well be more attractive than those of a less likely outright win without that advantage. Similarly, you can bet on a favorite to win, regardless of a small disadvantage that offers a higher payout.
Conclusion
Handicap betting isn’t the easiest form of betting. There’s a definite learning curve, especially when it comes to Asian handicaps. Once you grasp the basic concept, you can start with half-handicaps, which are essentially 1X2 with an advantage for the underdog or a disadvantage for the favorite.
Full handicaps will be your next step once you understand the inclusion of the conditions under which your stake will be refunded. Asian handicaps should be the last on your list of things to try.
You’ll find handicap betting on virtually every sport, although it’s most popular for football, basketball, and tennis. Before placing a simple 1X2 bet, you should at least take a look at the handicap betting options to see what’s available. You’ll likely find a better offer that minimizes your risk while maximizing your potential winnings.
