Handicap Bet

A Handicap bet is a popular form of wagering in which the favourite in a sporting contest is placed at an imaginary disadvantage. This is a popular way to bet on a match in which one side is such a clear favourite that their odds to win outright would be extremely short. The advantage, which could be a two- or three-goal start (or more) is given to the underdog and the favourite then needs to overcome it in order to "win" by the terms of the bet. The handicap may be expressed as (-1) next to the favourite's name, and (+1) next to the underdog.

How does the handicap work?
As an example, let's say Team A in a football match are considered comfortable favourites. The bookmaker thinks they are likely to win by at least three goals. As well as their match odds, which may be very short, the bookmaker will offer a handicap price. Team A (-3) might be available to back at reasonable odds). Effectively, for the sake of the bet, the match starts at 3-0 to Team B - so Team A will need to score four more goals than Team B to win.

If Team A wins on the pitch by three goals, the handicap bet will treat the result as a draw. If they win by any less than three, or the match is drawn, then Team B are treated as winners.