Betting handicaps can perplex beginners, but they are fundamentally simple. Handicapping levels the playing field, offering an equal footing for both sides in a bet. It’s commonly used in sports betting to balance strong and weak teams, ensuring fair wagers.
What is Betting Handicap?
A handicap is a set figure given to teams or participants to offset any perceived advantage. For example, in football, if Team A is stronger, they might start with a -1 goal handicap against Team B. This means Team A needs to win by more than one goal for a bet on them to succeed.
Types of Handicaps
- Asian Handicap: Eliminates the possibility of a draw, providing two outcomes.
- European Handicap: Includes three outcomes: win, lose, or draw.
Benefits of Betting Handicaps
- Better Odds: More competitive odds compared to straightforward win/lose bets.
- Balanced Playing Field: Offers a fairer challenge between unevenly matched teams.