What is the European Handicap?

European Handicap wager adds a certain number of points or goals to the underdog and subtracts the same number from the favorite. After adjusting for the handicap, the wager is settled according to the outcome of the game.

In this article, we’ll go through some examples, definitions, and every detail you need to know. So, let’s get started.

European Handicap - Explanation With Example

A European handicap bet is commonly known as a single handicap bet. It typically involves two outcomes: a home team win or an away team win. The draw is usually excluded in European handicap betting.

However, it is worth noting that there are variations and different interpretations of European handicap bets, so the number of outcomes may vary in some cases.

The European market is the oldest form of handicap wager in sports betting, and it is available at all respectable sportsbooks. In the European handicap system, the weaker team is given preference, making it difficult for the favorite team to overcome the advantage. The odds are often higher.

Many players choose to use the European handicap since the winnings are substantially higher if their bets win. European and other types of handicap bets can be used to wager on sports such as football, volleyball, basketball, and handball, as well as American sports such as American football, hockey, and baseball.

Before we look at some examples of European handicaps, it's important to understand the categories. In Europe, handicaps are classified into three categories:

• Handicap 1 or H1 - means that the underdog will start the game with 1 goal advantage.
• Handicap 2 or H2 - means that the underdog starts the game with a 2 goals advantage.
• Handicap 3 or H3 - means that the underdog starts the game with a 3 goal advantage.

Example:

Consider the match between Real Madrid and Koln. Real Madrid is the clear favorite. Here's an example:

The odds for Real Madrid (-1) are 1.60.

At the bookmaker, draw (-1) = 3.90.

At the bookmakers, Koln (+1) = 4.20.

If Real Madrid (-1) wins by at least two goals, your wager will be successful. If Real Madrid wins by a goal differential of one, your bet is a loss. Some winning scorelines include Real Madrid winning by scores of 4-2, 3-1, 2-0, and so on.

If Real Madrid wins by a single goal, the wager on a draw (-1) loses.

The Koln (+1) wager, on the other hand, wins if the weaker team wins or ties the game.

What Is a Positive European Handicap

A positive European handicap means that an underdog team has an advantage in goals or points over the favorite (+1, +2, +3, etc.).

What Is a Negative European Handicap

A negative handicap is used to give a disadvantage to a favorite team or player at the start of the match (-1, -2, -3, etc.).

European Handicap Table

Here’s a European handicap betting chart for additional explanation and clarification:

HOME/AWAY Team wins Bet

DRAW Bet

How Should You Use the European Handicap for Betting?

To effectively use the European Handicap for betting, analyze the match carefully and consider the goal advantage or disadvantage given to each team. Use this information to assess the potential outcomes and make informed betting decisions.

Additionally, it is important to research the teams involved, their recent form, and any other relevant factors that could impact the match. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the teams will help you determine if the handicap offered by the bookmaker is favorable or not.

Remember to manage your bankroll wisely and bet responsibly, considering the potential risks and rewards associated with European handicap betting.

Pros and Cons of Using European Handicap

Here are some benefits of European handicap betting:

• Offers additional betting options and flexibility compared to traditional 1X2 betting.
• Can provide higher odds and potentially bigger payouts.
• Allows for more strategic betting decisions by considering the handicap and adjusting the perceived strength of teams.

European handicap betting also has some drawbacks:

1. Requires a deeper understanding of the teams and their performance.
2. The possibility of higher risk and volatility due to the specific outcomes required for the bet to be successful.
3. May lead to more complex betting strategies that require careful analysis and planning.

Main Difference Between European and Asian Handicaps

European handicap bets can only have a whole number of handicaps (+1, +2, etc.). On the other hand, Asian handicap bets can have half-line and quarter-line handicaps (+1, +1.25, +1.5, +1.75, and +2).

Here’s an example:

If Real Madrid wins by exactly one goal in the preceding example's Asian handicap market, Real Madrid (-1) / Koln (+1), the result is a tie, and both bets are returned.

If there is a European handicap, both the Real Madrid (-1) and Koln (+1) bets would lose if Real Madrid wins by one goal.

How to Use a Combination of Asian and European Handicaps

Players may combine bets on European and Asian handicaps to maximize profits. For example, the three bets described below can be used to profit from each scenario and cover several potential outcomes.

Liverpool vs. Brighton

EH 1 (-2): 3.50

EH X (-2): 4.15

AH 2 (+1.5): 2.17

The European handicap of +2 is the same as the Asian handicap of +1.5. You can take advantage of the variation in odds between Asian handicaps (AH) and European handicaps by combining them.