A handicap bet is a type of bet which can be placed on a sporting event, where the underdog is given an advantage over the favourite. This makes the event more even and gives the underdog a chance of winning. The handicap is usually expressed in goals, points or runs and is added to the total of the underdog. In essence, a handicap bet is a way of evening out the odds on an event, giving the underdog a better chance of winning.
Understanding Handicap Betting
Handicap betting can be a little confusing at first, so it’s important to understand how it works. Essentially, the handicap is applied to the total score of the game, with the favourite receiving a handicap and the underdog receiving a ‘plus’ handicap. For example, in a football match between two teams, the favourite might receive a -1 goal handicap, while the underdog might receive a +1 goal handicap. This means that the total score of the game will be adjusted accordingly, with the favourite needing to win by more than one goal in order to win the handicap bet.
Types of Handicap Bets
There are various types of handicap bets available, each of which can be used to give the underdog a better chance of success. The most common types of handicap bets are:
- Asian Handicap: This is the most popular type of handicap betting, which is used mainly for football matches. The Asian handicap gives a team a ‘virtual’ lead or deficit, depending on which team is favoured to win. For example, a -1 goal handicap means that the favourite needs to win by more than one goal in order for the bet to be successful.
- Point Spread: This is similar to the Asian handicap, but it is used mainly for American sports such as basketball and American football. The point spread gives a team a ‘virtual’ lead or deficit, depending on which team is favoured to win.
- Moneyline Handicap: This is similar to the Asian handicap and the point spread, but it is used mainly for baseball and ice hockey. The moneyline handicap gives a team a ‘virtual’ lead or deficit, depending on which team is favoured to win.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Handicap Betting
Handicap betting can be a great way to give the underdog a better chance of success, but it can also be risky. The main advantage of handicap betting is that it makes the event more even and gives the underdog a chance of winning. However, it can also be risky, as the favourite may still manage to win despite the handicap.
How to Calculate Handicap Bets
Calculating a handicap bet can be a little tricky, as there are various factors to consider. The first step is to work out the handicap and then add or subtract it from the total score of the game. For example, if the handicap is -1 goal for the favourite and +1 goal for the underdog, then the total score of the game would be adjusted accordingly.
How to Place a Handicap Bet
Placing a handicap bet is relatively straightforward. Simply visit your chosen online betting site, select the handicap betting option and choose the event you wish to bet on. You will then need to decide which team you think is likely to win, and enter the amount you wish to bet. Once you have done this, your bet will be placed and you will be able to keep track of the event as it unfolds.
Tips for Winning Handicap Bets
There are various tips that you can use to improve your chances of winning a handicap bet. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Research: Make sure you do your research on the teams or players involved in the event. Look at their form, recent results, head-to-head records, and any other relevant information.
- Compare Odds: It is always a good idea to compare the odds offered by different bookmakers. This will give you a better understanding of which team is favoured to win, and you can then make an informed decision about which handicap bet to place.
- Choose the Right Handicap: Make sure you choose the right handicap for the event. If you’re not sure which handicap to choose, it’s always a good idea to consult with a betting expert or look at the handicap betting predictions from reputable sources.
- Manage Your Bankroll: It is important to manage your bankroll effectively when betting on handicap events. Make sure you set a budget and stick to it, as it is easy to get carried away and lose more than you can afford.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Betting on Handicap Events
Making mistakes when betting on handicap events can be costly, so it is important to be aware of them and try to avoid them. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when betting on handicap events:
- Not Doing Your Research: Not doing your research on the teams or players involved in the event is a big mistake. Make sure you look at their form, recent results, head-to-head records, and any other relevant information.
- Not Comparing Odds: Not comparing the odds offered by different bookmakers is another mistake. This will give you a better understanding of which team is favoured to win, and you can then make an informed decision about which handicap bet to place.
- Not Understanding the Handicap: Not understanding the handicap is another mistake that should be avoided. Make sure you understand how the handicap works and how it will affect the total score of the game.
- Not Managing Your Bankroll: Not managing your bankroll effectively is another mistake to avoid. Make sure you set a budget and stick to it, as it is easy to get carried away and lose more than you can afford.
Conclusion
In conclusion, handicap betting can be a great way to give the underdog a better chance of success. However, it is important to understand how it works and how to calculate your handicap bets. It is also important to do your research, compare the odds, choose the right handicap and manage your bankroll effectively. By following these tips, you can improve your chances of winning a handicap bet.