Understanding Handicap Meaning in Betting
The term "handicap" is widely used in various contexts, including sports betting. In this context, a handicap refers to a system that levels the playing field between two teams or individuals with differing abilities. This allows bettors to place wagers on events with a more even chance of winning.What is Handicap Meaning?
The handicap meaning in betting revolves around creating an equal starting point for both competitors. In sports, this can involve giving one team or player a head start, or deducting points from their score at the end. This way, the underdog has a chance to catch up and potentially win. For example, if Team A is significantly stronger than Team B, a handicap might be applied by giving Team B an initial lead of 10 points. This ensures that both teams have an equal opportunity to win, despite their differing abilities.Types of Handicaps in Betting
There are several types of handicaps used in betting:- Point Spread: This involves setting a specific number of points that one team must either cover or exceed.
- Moneyline: Here, the underdog is given a higher payout for winning, while the favorite has a lower payout.
- Handicap Points: In this system, a set number of points is awarded to the underdog at the start of the game.
How Handicaps Work in Betting
Understanding how handicaps work is crucial for bettors. Here's a step-by-step guide:Step 1: Determine the Handicap Value
The handicap value represents the number of points or goals that one team must cover or exceed to win. This value is determined by the bookmaker based on the teams' past performances, current form, and other factors.For example, if Team A has a +7.5 point handicap against Team B, they need to win by more than 8 points (7.5 + 0.5) for bettors who chose them.
Step 2: Place Your Bet
With the handicap value determined, you can now place your bet. You have two options:- Back Team A: This means you're betting on Team A to win or cover the handicap.
- Lay Team B: Here, you're betting against Team B winning or covering the handicap.
For example, if you back Team A with a +7.5 point handicap, they need to win by more than 8 points for your bet to be successful.
Step 3: Monitor the Game and Wait for Results
After placing your bet, monitor the game's progress and wait for the final result. If Team A wins by exactly 7 or fewer points, the bet would lose. However, if they win by more than 8 points (covering the handicap), your bet will be successful.Common Handicap Betting Markets
Handicap betting is available in various sports and markets:Soccer
In soccer, handicaps are often used to level the playing field between two teams. For example, a team that's expected to win by 2 or more goals might be given a -1.5 goal handicap.This means that if they're winning by exactly 1 goal at halftime, the handicap would kick in, and their lead would be reduced to just half a goal.
Tennis
In tennis, handicaps are applied based on players' past performances and current form. For example, a player who's expected to win might be given a -1.5 set handicap against an opponent.This means that if the favored player is winning by exactly 6-4 in sets 1 and 2, but their opponent wins set 3 by a single game, they would still lose overall due to the handicap.
Cricket
In cricket, handicaps are often used in Test matches or One-Day Internationals (ODIs). For example, if Team A is expected to win by more than 100 runs, they might be given a -150 run handicap against Team B.This means that if Team A wins the match by exactly 101 runs, but their opponents score exactly half of the total runs in the second innings, the handicap would kick in, and Team B's net run rate would be adjusted accordingly.
Handicap Betting Strategies
Bettors can employ various strategies when using handicaps:Value Betting
This involves looking for handicaps that offer good value compared to the current market odds. By identifying these opportunities, you can increase your chances of winning.For example, if a team is given a +5 point handicap against their opponent, but they're expected to win by more than 6 points, there might be value in backing them.
Banker Betting
In this strategy, you bet on a favorite with a high chance of winning and a low risk of losing. This approach can help you minimize losses while maximizing potential gains.For instance, if Team A is expected to win by more than 10 points against their opponent, they might be given a -2 point handicap.
Arbitrage Betting
This involves taking advantage of differences in odds across multiple bookmakers. By doing so, you can place bets on both outcomes and potentially secure a profit regardless of the result.For example, if Bookmaker A offers a +5 point handicap for Team A against their opponent at 2.50 odds, while Bookmaker B offers the same handicap at 2.20 odds, you could bet with both bookmakers and lock in a guaranteed profit.