All about Asian handicap in sports betting
Knowing sports and statistics is a definite advantage in sports betting, especially when playing with Asian handicaps. In this article, we take a deep dive into how Asian handicap works, its use in sports betting, and when it can yield the best results.
What is Asian handicap in odds?
The Asian handicap originated in Indonesia, where it is known as 'hang cheng betting'. It got its English name when a British journalist named Joe Saumarez Smith introduced it to the Western market.
The Asian Handicap is based on the idea of assigning different starting points to teams to even out the odds. This makes it less likely that the match will end in a draw as one team is given a notional advantage or disadvantage.
When can it be useful?
When a team is clearly superior, Asian handicap betting can be a good choice. For example, in a match between Manchester City and Burnley, where Manchester City is the clear favorite, it can even out the odds by giving City a negative handicap, such as -1 or -2 goals.
How Asian handicap is applied
Depending on how the handicap line is set, the odds and outcome of the game are affected:
- A team that receives a negative handicap, for example -1, must win by at least two goals for the game to be won.
- A team with a positive handicap, such as +1, can win or draw for the game to be a winner.
- A tie results in either a loss or a refund of the stake, depending on the line chosen.
What are handicap lines?
Handicap lines are made up of decimal numbers that reflect the score adjustment between teams. For example, a team may be assigned a handicap of +1, which means it gets a goal before the start of the match.
A guide to common lines
- Asian Handicap +1.5: The team you bet on gets an advantage of 1.5 goals.
Win: If your team wins, draws or loses by a maximum of one goal.
Loss: If your team loses by at least two goals. - Asian Handicap +2: The team you bet on gets an advantage of 2 goals.
Full win: If your team wins.
Loss: If your team loses by at least three goals. - Asian Handicap -1.75: Your team starts with a 1.75 goal deficit.
Full win: If the team wins by three goals or more.
Half win: If the team wins by exactly two goals.
Loss: If the team wins by one goal, draws, or loses.
Placing a bet with Asian handicap: a quick guide
- Choose your match: Asian handicap is often offered in football, but is also available on other sports, such as basketball, tennis and ice hockey.
- Decide which handicap line you want to play on: Find out what lines are available on the match you selected, for example -0.5, -1, +1, or -1.25.
- Place your bet: Choose your handicap and bet amount.
When it can be beneficial to use Asian Handicap
Asian Handicap is ideal in situations where the odds are skewed, for example:
- Strong favorites: Improve the odds by betting on a higher handicap.
- Uncertain matches: Reduce risk by playing on lower lines or positive handicaps.
However, it can be a disadvantage in the following situations:
- When teams are evenly matched: If both teams are of similar strength and form, it may be more difficult to predict which team will win. Asian handicap may then be less effective as the outcome is more unpredictable.
- When there is uncertainty about the line-up: Injuries and late changes to the line-up can affect team performance and make the handicap less effective.
- For matches with a high probability of a draw: If there is a high chance of the match ending in a draw and you use a line that does not take this into account (e.g. -0.5 or -1), the risk of loss will also be higher.
What is Asian handicap 0?
You may come across something called Asian handicap 0. This is a betting option equivalent to Draw No Bet where you win if your team wins. You get your stake back if the match ends in a draw.
Try sports betting with Asian Handicap at Bethard
We offer Asian handicap betting on a wide range of matches and tournaments via our sportsbook. With us, you'll often find competitive odds and bonus bets throughout the year.
If you still haven't registered an account with us, click on the green LOGIN button at the top right corner of the home page to create an account and get started with your bet.
FAQ
What is Asian Handicap?
Asian Handicap is a form of betting that eliminates draws by giving a team a virtual advantage or disadvantage.
What does half win or half loss mean?
Half win means you win on half the bet and get the other half. Half loss means you lose half the bet and get back the rest.
Is Asian Handicap suitable for beginners?
Yes, but it requires you to understand how handicap lines work. Start by reading some tables to understand how different lines can affect the outcome of a match.
How to calculate Asian Handicap winnings?
To calculate the win, you need to take into account the selected handicap, the match result and the bet.
