What is a Football Handicap Bet? Common Types of Handicap Bets
In the world of football betting, bookmakers offer different types of odds for each match. Among them, handicap betting is one of the most popular and frequently chosen types by bettors. So what exactly is a live soccer prediction for today handicap bet? How do you read handicap odds, and what are some tips for betting on these? Let’s explore all about handicap betting with BET88 in the following article.
1. Sports Betting – A Dangerous “Addiction”
Everyone knows that drugs like heroin or ecstasy are dangerous and addictive. However, few people realize that football betting can also become an addiction, with consequences just as severe as those caused by hard drugs.
Scientific research has shown that sports betting affects the human brain in ways similar to addictive substances. When someone wins a bet, the excitement and thrill they feel is comparable to a drug high – a temporary euphoria that keeps them coming back for more.
On the flip side, losing a bet can lead to sadness, depression, anxiety, and even panic – emotions very similar to withdrawal symptoms in drug addicts. There have even been tragic cases where individuals have taken their own lives after losing large bets on football matches. What makes football betting particularly dangerous is that it’s closely tied to passion. Most people who bet on football are passionate fans of the sport, and this emotional connection makes it even harder to break free from the addiction. In fact, studies suggest that football betting is harder to quit than other forms of gambling. Therefore, the best way to avoid falling into this trap is to steer clear of it entirely.
What is a Football Handicap Bet?
A football handicap bet, also known as Asian handicap, is a type of bet designed for matches where there is a noticeable gap in strength between the two teams. It aims to level the playing field by giving a virtual advantage or disadvantage to one of the teams.
Bookmakers such as good soccer prediction sites offer handicap bets to create more balanced betting options. The goal is to eliminate the draw option and focus on who performs better against the set handicap.
There are two main forms of handicap betting:
Goal Handicap: Where a team starts the game with a virtual lead or deficit in terms of goals.
Money Handicap: Initially used to balance betting amounts. When the money flow between the two sides becomes too unbalanced, the handicap shifts to a goal handicap instead.
The basic unit of goal handicap is usually 0.25 goals (¼ ball).
Types of Common Handicap Bets
1. Level Ball Handicap (Draw No Bet)
Also known as the "0 handicap", this type of bet football prediction application means that no team is given a head start. It’s as straightforward as it gets:
If you bet on Team A and they win, you win the bet.
If Team A loses, you lose the bet.
If the match ends in a draw, your stake is refunded.
This type of bet appears in two common cases:
One team is rated higher, but their recent form has dipped, prompting bookmakers to set equal odds.
Both teams are considered evenly matched, with no team seen as stronger than the other. Bookmakers then assign a 0 handicap to reflect this balance.
2. Half Ball Handicap (0.5)
This is when the stronger team gives a 0.5 goal advantage to the weaker team.
If you bet on the favored team and they win, your bet wins.
If the favored team draws or loses, you lose the bet.
If you bet on the underdog and the match ends in a draw, you win.
This same rule applies to higher versions such as 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, etc.
3. Three-Quarter Ball Handicap (0.75 or ¾)
Also called 0.75 handicap, this occurs when the stronger team gives away 0.75 goals.
If the favored team wins by 2 or more goals, you win the full amount.
If they win by only 1 goal, you win half the bet, while those who bet on the underdog lose half.
If the match is a draw or the underdog wins, the underdog bet wins.
These rules apply similarly to handicaps like 1.75, 2.75, 3.75, etc.
4. One Goal Handicap (1.0)
In this scenario, the stronger team starts with a 1-goal disadvantage.
If the favored team wins by 2 or more goals, the bet wins.
If the favored team draws or loses, the underdog wins the bet.
If the favored team wins by exactly 1 goal, the result is a push—both sides get their stake back.
The same rules apply to higher handicaps like 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and so on.
Tips for Betting on Handicap Odds
Football betting is meant to be fun and entertaining, but a smart approach can help you win more often. Here are a few strategies for betting on handicap odds effectively:
Do your research: Study team statistics, recent form, head-to-head history, and key player availability.
Understand bookmaker behavior: The odds offered by the bookmaker reflect their assessment of the match. Keep an eye on any sudden changes in odds, which might hint at insider insights.
Watch live games: Observing live matches provided by bookmakers can give you a better sense of how the teams are performing and help you make more accurate in-play bets.
Track your bets: Keep a record of your bets to analyze what works and what doesn’t over time.
Final Thoughts
After reading this guide, you should now have a clearer understanding of what a football handicap bet is and how to interpret different types of handicap odds. With the tips and strategies we’ve shared, you can improve your approach and enjoy betting with more confidence.
Good luck and may the odds be in your favor!