In sports betting, a „handicap“ is a method used by bookmakers to level the playing field when there are disparities in the perceived strengths of teams or players competing against each other. Here’s a breakdown of the concept and how it’s typically used in betting:
- What is Handicap in Betting: Handicap betting involves giving one selection (usually the underdog) a virtual advantage and the other a virtual disadvantage. This is done to even out the odds, making the betting more attractive and interesting.
- Types of Handicaps:
- Simple Handicap: A straightforward handicap where a point, goal, or other unit is subtracted from the favorite and given to the underdog.
- Asian Handicap: This splits bets into two types, reducing the number of possible outcomes from three (win, lose, draw) to two (win, lose) by eliminating the draw outcome. It often uses fractions (like 0.5, 1.5, etc.) to ensure a clear win or loss.
- European Handicap: Unlike the Asian Handicap, the European version maintains the draw as a betting option. It typically uses whole numbers.
- How to Use Handicap in Betting:
- Understand the Odds: First, understand the odds and the handicap being applied. For example, if Team A has a -1 goal handicap against Team B, they need to win by more than one goal for a bet on them to pay off.
- Choose the Right Matches: Look for matches where there’s a clear favorite and underdog. Handicap betting is most effective in these scenarios.
- Consider the Sport: Different sports have different scoring systems, so the type of handicap will vary. For instance, in soccer, handicaps are usually based on goals, while in basketball, they’re based on points.
- Research the Teams/Players: Know the teams’ or players’ current form, strengths, weaknesses, and historical performance, especially under similar conditions.
- Strategies:
- Backing the Underdog: If an underdog has a good track record or seems underrated, a handicap can make betting on them more appealing.
- Backing the Favorite: If you believe the favorite will win by a significant margin, a handicap can increase the potential payout compared to a standard bet.
- Risks and Considerations:
- Complexity: Handicap betting can be more complex than traditional betting, requiring more knowledge and understanding.
- Variance: The nature of the handicap can sometimes introduce more variability, especially in closely matched games.
- Popular in Many Sports: Handicap betting is popular in various sports like football (soccer), basketball, rugby, and tennis, each with its specific way of applying the handicap based on the scoring nature of the sport.
