When a very strong team faces an extremely weak opposition, the odds just feel too low. For most bettors, they feel like staking on that game is worthless because the return is insignificant. But that is because they are not well-informed about handicap betting.
Handicap betting helps to level the playing field, making those one-sided matches more exciting to watch and the bet more interesting to place. This type of bet is perfect for those who want to take advantage of the gap in skill between two teams. Let’s go into more details.
How Handicap Betting Works
In football, the concept of handicap betting involves assigning a fictional advantage or disadvantage, expressed in goals, to one of the teams before the match starts. This means the favorite team starts with a handicap, while the underdog is given a head start. This not only spices up a one-sided match but also opens the door to more attractive odds.
Here's how it works:
- Positive handicap (+): The underdog starts with a goal advantage.
- Negative handicap (-): The favorite starts with a goal deficit.
Example of a Handicap Bet
Let’s take a match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and FC Nantes. PSG is the clear favorite. A bookmaker might offer a -2 handicap for PSG.
Here's how that plays out:
Team | Actual Score | Handicap | Handicap Score | Bet Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
PSG | 3 | -2 | 1 | Win |
FC Nantes | 1 | +2 | 3 | Lose |
In this example, for the bet on PSG to win, they must win the match by at least three goals. If PSG wins 3-1, the handicap score becomes 1-1, which means the bet is a draw and the stake is refunded. So, for the bet to be successful, PSG would need to win 3-0.
Our Tips for Placing a Handicap Bet
Placing a handicap bet requires good knowledge of the teams and the many factors that can influence a match’s outcome. Here are some tips to help:
- Recent performances: Check recent results to evaluate the current form of both teams. A confident team is more likely to overcome a handicap.
- Injuries and suspensions: Missing key players can significantly affect a team's performance. Always check team lineups before placing your bet.
- Head-to-head history: Past meetings between the teams can provide valuable insights. Some teams consistently perform better against certain opponents.
- Game conditions: Weather and location can also impact the match. A poor pitch or a fiery home crowd can help balance the scales.
Advantages of Handicap Betting
Handicap betting offers several benefits to bettors:
- Leveling the playing field: It makes one-sided matches more competitive. Betting on PSG when they’re favorites often doesn’t offer great odds, so bettors can add a handicap to spice things up.
- Added value: The odds are often more attractive, offering better winning potential.
- Flexibility: Bettors can choose from various handicap levels to adjust the risk and potential reward.
Wrap Up
Handicap betting is perfect for those looking to boost their winnings in matches with uneven teams where standard odds are too low. It makes betting more balanced and more profitable for the bettor. Some of the best betting sites offer strong handicap markets, giving you more value and better odds on one-sided fixtures. By taking the time to analyze the different factors that can influence a match, you can find great opportunities in this type of bet. It’s a smart way to move beyond basic betting while keeping a strong strategic logic. Use it well, and you’ll find yourself winning most of the time. Good luck!