Asian Handicap betting

An Asian Handicap bet is a form of betting which originated, and is still very popular in Asia. It usually takes place in the form of an event that has three outcomes, such as a football match (win/draw/lose) and a team receives a virtual head start. These handicaps (head starts) eliminate the possibility of the game finishing in a draw, as one team will receive +0.25 or +1.5 etc, it is impossible for a team to score half a goal in a real game of football. Therefore, an Asian Handicap bet only has two possible outcomes, making it easier to win.

Asian Handicap example

An example of an Asian Handicap bet is Man Utd (-1.5) 2.1 vs Norwich (+1.5) 1.85

In this game, Norwich receive a 1.5 goal head start. They are priced at 1.85 to win the game with the handicap, and Man Utd 2.05. To win the Asian Handicap bet, Man Utd need to win by 2 clear goals, as this would overcome the handicap. If Man Utd win by 1 goal, draw or lose to Norwich, then Norwich would win the Asian Handicap bet.

It is also important to note there is a possibility of an Asian Handicap bet being refunded. This would occur in the following example:

Chelsea (-1) 1.75 vs Spurs (+1) 2.1

If you placed your Asian Handicap bet on Chelsea to win, and the result of the match was Chelsea winning by one clear goal, the bet would be declared void because of Chelsea’s -1 handicap. In this instance your stake would be returned. However, most bookmakers set handicaps to .5 goals to avoid this outcome from occuring.

Asian Handicaps are a great way to bet if you understand the handicaps involved. Many professional gamblers only bet on Asian Handicaps, and are widely considered to be one of the most profitable forms of online betting.

When it comes to placing Asian Handicap bets online, Bet 365 has the most comprehensive range of Asian Handicap markets, and offers competitive odds. Click here for a list of Asian Handicap bookmakers offering free bets.

*Click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches