European Handicap Explained – What is European Handicap Betting [2024]

Consider this a guide on European handicap betting for amateurs. What does a European handicap mean? Let us begin by explaining how such a bet can be used for underdog betting.

Unlike straight betting, a European handicap is designed to balance out the odds for an underdog. In effect, they give an advantage to the underdog and are commonly found with football bets.

In essence, the bets add points or goals to the underdog’s tally, by subtracting them from the favorite. The bet is then determined by the result in a sports event, adjusted for the handicap which has been awarded. Confused, let us provide you with an example…

Aside from the fact that Asian handicaps bets are more commonly found at betting sites from Asian bookies than European ones, there is another major difference between the two.

Both types of handicaps give an advantage, or head start to the underdog, but in different ways. A typical Asian handicap might feature whole numbers (like Asian handicap 1 or -1 Asian handicap) but also non-whole numbers, such as Asian handicap +0.25, Asian handicap +0.5, Asian handicap +0.75, Asian handicap -0.5, 1.25, 1.5 or 1.75 (corresponding to the alternative Asian handicap), which cannot happen with European handicaps – only whole numbers are used.

Using the example above, an Asian handicap bet would see the bet push if Italy wins with a single goal. The odds would be displayed as follows:

• Italy (-1.5)
• Ireland (+0.5)

Note that there is no winning draw in the Asian handicap (learn more about handicap betting). In the case of the European handicap vs. Asian handicap, we could argue all day about which is better. Ultimately it is up to you to decide for yourself, based on how you like to wager on underdogs.

To begin betting with European handicap rules, you need to know how to read soccer odds and have an idea of how to place a bet online.

If you’ve got these basic steps down, you can move on to the actual betting. Here is what you need to do:

These types of bets are most common in football betting. What is a European handicap in football betting, though?

What should you keep an eye out for? Here are just a handful of European handicap tips to keep in mind:

By examining the above, you can put yourself in an ideal position to analyse a European handicap bet and see if there really is value for money to bet had.

European handicaps are most favorable for football, but a variety of other low-scoring sports can be ideal.

Some of the different types of sports betting options commonly found at bookies appear in our European handicap table below. Not all are advantageous for European handicaps.

Every betting strategy and wagering option has pros and cons. Here are a few attached to European handicap betting.

It is understandable that when learning a new way to bet, you may still have a few questions. We aim to help you get answers to them in this short, frequently asked questions guide.

Properly using a European handicap can be one of the best sports betting strategies around in 2024. We hope that our betting guide has helped you understand the perks of this betting option. We have also prepared a guide about making living on Betfair.

If you are ready to play, you need to find a top bookmaker. Have a look around our website, and we’re sure that by checking out the odd review or two, you can find the perfect online bookmaker which offers European handicap betting.

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