Handicap Betting: A Comprehensive Online Betting Dictionary
If you’re looking to get into sports betting, handicap betting is an important term you need to understand. But what is handicap betting, and how does it work? In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to handicap betting and the terminology you need to know to become a proficient sports bettor.
What is Handicap Betting?
Handicap betting is a form of sports betting that evens out the odds between two teams by giving one team a handicap or disadvantage. The aim of handicap betting is to make both teams equally attractive to bettors, regardless of their ability levels. This makes it more challenging for bettors to predict the outcome of a match, but it also increases the potential payouts.
Types of Handicap Betting
Asian Handicap Betting
Asian Handicap Betting is a form of handicap betting that originated in Asia and has become popular around the world. In Asian Handicap Betting, the handicap is expressed in fractions, making it possible to eliminate the possibility of a draw.
European Handicap Betting
European Handicap Betting is similar to Asian Handicap Betting, but the handicap is expressed in whole numbers, making a draw a possible outcome.
Alternative Handicap Betting
Alternative Handicap Betting is a form of handicap betting that offers a wider range of handicaps, allowing bettors to choose from a larger selection of odds.
How Does Handicap Betting Work?
In handicap betting, the favorite team is given a handicap or disadvantage, while the underdog team is given a handicap or advantage. The handicap is expressed in points or goals and is added to the final score of the team that receives it. The aim of handicap betting is to create more balanced odds for both teams and make the match more challenging to predict.
For example, if you bet on a team with a -1 handicap, they need to win by at least two goals for your bet to be successful. If you bet on a team with a +1 handicap, they can lose by one goal and you will still win your bet.
Handicap Betting Strategies
Bet on the Underdog
One strategy for handicap betting is to bet on the underdog. When a team is given a handicap, it means they are perceived to be weaker than their opponents. However, this is not always the case, and the underdog can often perform better than expected, resulting in a successful bet.
Use Handicap Betting to Even Out the Odds
Another strategy is to use handicap betting to even out the odds between two teams that are perceived to be evenly matched. This can make for a more exciting betting experience and can result in higher potential payouts.
Consider Team Form and Home Advantage
When placing handicap bets, it’s important to consider the form of both teams and whether they are playing at home or away. A team’s home advantage can play a significant role in their performance and can affect the outcome of the match.
Handicap Betting Examples
Example 1: Manchester United vs. Aston Villa
In a match between Manchester United and Aston Villa, Manchester United is given a -1 handicap, meaning they need to win by at least two goals to win the bet. The bet is lost if they win by only one goal or the match ends in a draw. On the other hand, if Aston Villa wins the match or the match ends in a draw, a bet on them with a +1 handicap would be successful.
Example 2: Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
In a basketball match between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Warriors are given a -5.5 handicap, meaning they need to win by at least six points to win the bet. If they win by only five points or less or the Cavaliers win the match, the bet is lost. A bet on the Cavaliers with a +5.5 handicap would be successful if the Cavaliers win the match or lose by five points or less.
Handicap Betting in Different Sports
Handicap betting can be used in various sports, including:
Handicap Betting in Football (Soccer)
In football (soccer), handicap betting is used to even out the odds between two teams. The handicap is expressed in goals and can range from a -1 handicap to a +3 handicap or more.
Handicap Betting in Basketball
In basketball, handicap betting is used to even out the odds between two teams. The handicap is expressed in points and can range from a -1.5 handicap to a +10.5 handicap or more.
Handicap Betting in Tennis
In tennis, handicap betting is used to even out the odds between two players. The handicap is expressed in games, and can range from a -2.5 handicap to a +3.5 handicap or more. Handicap betting is a popular form of sports betting that can create an exciting and potentially lucrative betting experience. By understanding the basics of handicap betting and utilizing effective betting strategies, bettors can increase their chances of placing successful bets.
FAQs
Is handicap betting the same as spread betting?
Handicap betting and spread betting are similar in that they both involve giving one team a virtual advantage or disadvantage to even out the odds. However, handicap betting is more commonly used in Europe and Asia, while spread betting is more popular in the United States.
How do I calculate my potential winnings for a handicap bet?
To calculate potential winnings for a handicap bet, you need to multiply your stake by the odds. For example, if you bet $10 on a team with a +1 handicap at odds of 2.00, your potential winnings would be $20.
Is handicap betting only available for pre-match bets?
Handicap betting is available for both pre-match and live bets, depending on the betting site.
How can I find the best odds for handicap betting?
To find the best odds for handicap betting, it’s important to shop around and compare odds from different betting sites.
Is handicap betting suitable for beginners?
Handicap betting can be more challenging for inexperienced bettors to understand, but with some research and practice, beginners can successfully place handicap bets. It’s important to start with small stakes and gradually increase them as you gain more experience and confidence.
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