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| Published On Aug 31, 2023 12:42 am CEST  |  Updated on Aug 25, 2025 12:13 pm CEST | By iGaming Team

Unlocking The Mystery of Asian Handicap Betting in Football

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When it comes to football betting, most are familiar with betting on the winner, Both Teams to Score (BTTS) bets – correct score bets etc. However, there also exists a realm of subtlety and complexity known as Asian Handicap Betting.

This is a unique form of wagering that has gained serious popularity among football bettors due to its potential for reducing the odds of a draw and offering more betting possibilities. Join us as we close in on Asian Handicap bets and explore when and how to make them in football.

What Is Asian Handicap Betting?

Asian Handicap Betting is a system devised to level the playing field in football matches where one team is considered a massive favourite over the other. It aims to eliminate the possibility of a draw and offer more balanced odds – making it more worth your time. Unlike traditional 1X2 betting, where you bet on a team to win, lose, or draw, Asian Handicap Betting offers a wider range of options by assigning a handicap to each team – and this is why you will find it available at any decent sportsbook.

How Does Asian Handicap Betting Work?

In Asian Handicap Betting, one team is given a goal handicap, while the other is given a goal deficit which creates a virtual handicap score even before the match even begins. The handicap is usually in fractions such as -0.5, -1, +0.5, or +1:

  • -0.5: The favourite starts with a 0.5-goal deficit, so if the game is a draw, they lose.
  • -1: The favourite begins with a one-goal deficit so they need to win by at least two goals for the bet to win.
  • +0.5: The underdog team starts with a 0.5-goal lead, so they win the bet even if it ends in a draw.
  • +1: The underdog team begins with a one-goal lead, so they win if it ends in a draw – and if they lose by one goal, your bet is refunded.

When Should You Make an Asian Handicap Bet in Football?

So, when should you take on one of these bets?

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  1. When There’s a Clear Favourite: It’s great if there’s a clear favourite. Instead of betting on the favourite with very low odds, you can use handicaps to improve your odds and make it worthwhile.
  2. To Avoid Draws: Asian Handicap Betting eliminates the possibility of a draw. If you’re sure that a match won’t end in a tie, this could be a wise choice.
  3. To Manage Risk: Asian Handicap Betting gives you more control over your bets. You can choose handicaps that suit your risk tolerance. For example, if you want a safer bet, you can opt for a +0.5 handicap on the underdog – or you could go high on the favourite if you prefer a bigger risk.
  4. In In-Play Betting: Asian Handicap Betting is popular for in-play betting. As the match progresses and you see how the teams are performing, you can place bets with changing handicaps to capitalise on what’s happening.

The Most Common Types of Asian Handicap Bets

Here are the most common types of Asian Handicap Bets:

  • Single Asian Handicap: This involves a single handicap applied to a team. For example, if you bet on Team A with a -1 handicap, they need to win by at least two goals for you to win.
  • Split Handicap: Also known as a quarter handicap, this divides your stake between two handicaps. So, if you bet on Team B with a -0.75 handicap, half your stake is on -0.5 and the other half is on -1. If Team B wins by two or more goals, then you win both halves of the bet.
  • Double Asian Handicap: In this type of bet, two handicaps are applied to a team. If you bet on Team C with a +0.5 and +1 handicap, you win if Team C wins or draws, and if they lose by only one goal.
  • No-Draw Handicap: This is designed to eliminate draws. If the match ends in a draw, your stake will be refunded. So, if you bet on Team D with a 0 Asian Handicap, you win if they win and get your money back if it’s a draw.

Ultimately, Asian Handicap Betting is great for football bettors looking for a more flexible betting experience. It essentially helps to level the playing field and eliminate draws. If you can understand the intricacies of Asian Handicap Betting, you can enjoy a more thrilling and possibly profitable and effective football betting experience.