How Handicap Betting Works in Football

Football matches don’t always begin on even ground- when one team is much stronger, it can make betting less appealing for many punters. Handicap betting tries to level things out so each side has a fairer chance in the eyes of those placing bets.

In this guide, we will explain the basics of handicap betting in football. Whether you are new to the topic or looking to understand it better, this article provides clear information to help you learn more about how handicap betting works.

What Does a Football Handicap Actually Mean?

A football handicap is a virtual adjustment applied by a bookmaker to one or both teams before a match begins. This adjustment is shown as a positive or negative number and does not influence the actual outcome of the game. Instead, it is used solely for settling bets within specific handicap markets.

For instance, if a team is given a handicap of -1, they would need to win by more than one goal for a bet on them to be successful. Conversely, a team with a +1 handicap may still be considered within the terms of a winning outcome if they lose by one goal, draw, or win, depending on the market and the final result.

Handicaps can be displayed as whole numbers, such as -1 or +2, or as fractions, like +0.5 or -1.5. A minus sign indicates the team is starting with a goal disadvantage, while a plus sign indicates a goal advantage. These figures are used only for settling bets in the relevant market and do not reflect any changes to the actual match.

Each licensed operator may have slightly different terms for how markets are settled, so checking the rules in advance could be useful.

Why Are Handicaps Popular With Punters?

Handicap markets are sometimes used when a football match appears to be one-sided. In situations where one team is strongly favoured to win, standard betting markets may offer lower odds on that outcome. Handicap markets adjust the conditions by setting a virtual margin, which can lead to more balanced odds. 

This type of market provides an alternative way to view a match. Rather than simply choosing which team might win or whether the game will end in a draw, it allows for consideration of whether a team could overcome or benefit from a virtual goal difference.

Some people explore team form, historical results, or tactical approaches to help them understand how a team might perform under these conditions. Handicap markets may appeal to those who are interested in that kind of analysis.

Most operators licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) include handicap markets as part of their football event offerings, giving users additional options when reviewing matches.

Football Betting Handicap Odds Explained

Handicap odds reflect the potential return based on the outcome after the handicap has been applied to the match result. These odds may appear unfamiliar if you’re more accustomed to standard betting formats.

For instance, if Team A has a -1 handicap, they would need to win by at least two goals for the selection to be settled as a win. If Team B has a +2 handicap, they could lose by one goal, draw, or win, and the outcome could still be considered a win for that market, depending on the final score.

Odds are usually shown in either fractional format (such as 5/2) or decimal format (such as 3.50). Fractional odds indicate the profit on a £1 stake, while decimal odds include both the stake and the profit in the return shown.

These types of markets offer a different way of viewing match outcomes. A team expected to win by a wide margin may be given a negative handicap, while the underdog may be given a positive one. The way these markets are presented can vary between UK-licensed operators, so it might be a good idea to review the specific format and settlement terms before making any decisions.

What +2 and Other Handicap Numbers Really Mean

Each handicap value alters how a match result is interpreted for the purpose of settling bets. A +2 handicap gives a team a virtual two-goal advantage. So, if that team loses 2-1 in the actual match, the adjusted score for the market would be treated as 3-2 in their favour.

A -1 handicap means the team must win by at least two goals for that outcome to be settled as a win. If they win by just one goal, the adjusted result would be a draw. In many standard handicap markets, this could lead to the stake being returned. This situation is often referred to as a push, but how it is handled depends on the specific rules used by the operator.

When the handicap includes half-goal values, such as +0.5 or -1.5, there is no possibility of a push. A +0.5 handicap means the team would need to either draw or win. A -1.5 handicap requires a team to win by two or more goals for that selection to be settled as a win.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific terms and conditions for each market. Settlement procedures and the types of handicap markets available—such as standard or Asian handicap—can vary between licensed operators.

Do Handicaps Favour the Favourite or the Underdog?

Handicap betting is a way of viewing a football match with an adjusted perspective, aiming to create a more level comparison between the two teams. In this format, the team expected to perform better is given a greater challenge, while the team seen as less likely to win receives a virtual advantage.

Backing the favourite means they would need to win by more than the handicap amount. For instance, if a team is listed with a -2 handicap, they would need to win by at least three goals for that selection to be settled as a win.

On the other hand, backing the underdog might still lead to a favourable outcome even if that team loses by a small margin or holds their opponent to a draw, depending on the specific handicap applied.

These values are set by bookmakers using various factors such as team strength, form, and past performance. Handicap betting introduces the option to consider different possible outcomes beyond just the final scoreline, allowing for a broader view of how a match might unfold.

Biggest Mistakes People Make With Handicap Bets

A common mistake with handicap markets is not fully understanding the result needed for a selection to be settled as a win. For example, a -2 handicap means the team must win by at least three goals. A victory by only one or two goals would not be enough for that selection to succeed under standard rules.

Half-goal handicaps can also be misinterpreted. These remove the possibility of a draw in the market, meaning there is no returned stake if the adjusted result is level. The outcome is either a win or a loss, depending on the final adjusted score.

Handicap markets can vary. Some are standard, while others follow the Asian handicap format, which may include options such as half-stake returns depending on how the result falls. It’s important to read the specific rules and terms of each market offered by the licensed operator.

External factors can also play a role in how a match unfolds. Elements like team selection, pitch conditions, and the wider importance of the fixture can all impact performance and are worth considering.

If you choose to participate in football betting, it is important to use only money that you can afford to lose. Handicap markets, like all betting options, involve risk. Bettors should remember to gamble responsibly and within their means. 

Is Handicap Betting Good for Beginners?

Handicap betting offers additional options for those who are new to football betting. Understanding how the handicap numbers influence outcomes can take some time, but most betting websites provide clear explanations of their terms. Consulting help pages or bet guides could potentially be helpful when learning how these markets work.

This type of betting may be of interest to those seeking alternatives to the traditional win/draw/win markets, as it provides more variety, especially when a match seems one-sided.

Licensed UK operators are required to present terms and conditions clearly. It might be a good idea to review these carefully before deciding whether to place a bet.