Understand Handicap In Soccer Betting
In soccer betting, the handicap is a way to level the playing field when there is a perceived difference in the abilities of the two teams. Handicap betting is popular in situations where there is a clear favorite and an underdog. The concept is to give a virtual advantage or disadvantage to one of the teams before the match starts.
Here’s how the handicap works in soccer betting:
Types of Handicap Bets:
Asian Handicap (AH):
The Asian Handicap is a popular form of handicap betting that eliminates the possibility of a draw by applying a fractional goal or whole number goal handicap to one of the teams. The main types include:
AH 0.0 (Draw No Bet): If the match ends in a draw, the stake is refunded.
AH -0.5: The team must win for the bet to be successful.
AH +0.5: The team must avoid defeat for the bet to be successful.
European Handicap:
In the European Handicap, a handicap is applied to one team, and you can bet on the team with the handicap or against them. Common types include:
-1 Handicap: The team must win by more than one goal for the bet to be successful.
+1 Handicap:
The team must avoid losing by more than one goal for the bet to be successful.
Goal Handicap:
In this type of handicap, a team is given a head start or a deficit in terms of the number of goals. For example:
Team A +2:
Team A is given a two-goal head start, and the bet is successful if they win, draw, or lose by one goal.
Positive and Negative Handicap:
Positive Handicap (+):
If a team has a positive handicap, it means they are receiving a virtual head start. To win the bet, the team must either win or avoid losing by a margin smaller than the handicap.
Example:
If you bet on Team A with a +1 handicap, your bet is successful if Team A wins or if the match ends in a draw.
Negative Handicap (-):
If a team has a negative handicap, it means they are starting with a virtual deficit. To win the bet, the team must win by a margin greater than the handicap.
Example: If you bet on Team B with a -1 handicap, your bet is successful only if Team B wins by at least two goals.
How Handicap Betting Works:
Full-Time Result:
The result is determined based on the score at the end of the regulation time (90 minutes plus injury time). Extra time and penalty shootouts in cup competitions do not typically count.
Half-Time/Full-Time Result:
Some bookmakers offer handicap bets for the half-time result, where the handicap is applied only to the first half of the match.
Examples:
Asian Handicap:
If you bet on Team A with an AH -1.0 handicap and the match ends 2-0, your bet is a winner because Team A effectively won 1-0 after accounting for the handicap.
Goal Handicap:
If you bet on Team B with a -2 goal handicap and the match ends 3-1, your bet is a winner because, after applying the handicap, the effective score is 1-
1. Tips for Handicap Betting:
Understand Team Strengths:
Consider the relative strengths and weaknesses of the teams involved. Handicap betting is often used to create more balanced odds in matches with a clear favorite.
Consider Recent Form:
Assess the recent form of teams, including their goal-scoring ability and defensive performance. Teams in good form may be more likely to cover a handicap.
Injuries and Suspensions:
Check for key player injuries or suspensions. The absence of key players can influence a team’s ability to cover or overcome a handicap.
Evaluate Motivation:
Consider the motivation of teams, especially in situations where one team has little to play for (e.g., already secured the league title or facing relegation).
Shop for the Best Odds:
Compare handicap odds across different bookmakers to find the best value. Different bookmakers may offer slightly different handicaps and odds.
Handicap betting adds an extra layer of complexity and excitement to soccer betting by adjusting the perceived balance between teams. Understanding the nuances of different handicap markets and incorporating thorough analysis into your betting strategy can enhance your chances of making informed handicap bets.