Sports betting is filled with numerous markets and strategies, and one of the most popular among serious punters is Asian Handicap betting. Though it may seem complex at first glance, Asian Handicap betting offers greater value and reduced risk — especially when betting on sports like football.
This complete beginner’s guide will help you understand what Asian Handicap betting is, how it works, and how you can use it to your advantage.
What Is Asian Handicap Betting?
Asian Handicap betting is a form of spread betting designed to eliminate the possibility of a draw (tie) in sports, primarily football. It gives one team a virtual advantage or disadvantage to level the playing field, resulting in only two possible outcomes — win or lose.
For example, in a match between a strong team and an underdog, the stronger team might start with a handicap like -1.5, meaning they must win by at least 2 goals for your bet to succeed.
How Does Asian Handicap Work?
Asian Handicap is based on goal difference, and you bet on a team after the handicap has been applied. Here are common handicap types:
Handicap | Explanation |
0 (Draw No Bet) | If the game ends in a draw, your stake is refunded. |
+0.5 / -0.5 | Half-goal handicap; eliminates the draw completely. |
+1 / -1 | Full goal handicap; if the match ends in a draw after handicap, it's a push (stake returned). |
+1.25 / -1.25 | Quarter goal handicap; splits your bet into two parts. |
+1.5 / -1.5 | The team must win/lose by 2 goals or more for the bet to win. |
Why Use Asian Handicap Betting?
1. Eliminates the Draw
This is ideal when you want to remove the “draw” outcome — which is often frustrating in traditional 1X2 betting.
2. Better Value
Odds are usually more competitive, especially when backing underdogs with a head start.
3. Reduces Risk
Some handicap options allow your stake to be returned (push), minimizing losses.
What Does Asian Handicap 0.5 Mean in Betting?
Asian Handicap 0.5 (also written as +0.5 or -0.5) means that half a goal is added or subtracted to a team before the match begins for betting purposes.
It completely removes the possibility of a draw — there are only two outcomes: win or lose.
If You Bet on a Team with +0.5 Handicap:
You win the bet if that team wins or draws the match. You lose if the team loses the match.
Example:You bet on Team A +0.5 vs Team B.
If the match ends 1–1 or 2–1 to Team A, you win.
If Team A loses 1–0, you lose.
If You Bet on a Team with -0.5 Handicap:
Your team must win the match outright. You lose if it’s a draw or a loss.
Example:You bet on Team B -0.5 vs Team A.
If Team B wins 1–0 or 3–2, you win.
If the match ends 1–1 or Team B loses, you lose.
Asian Handicap Betting Examples in Football
Example 1: Manchester City (-1.5) vs Burnley
You bet on Manchester City -1.5.
If City wins 2-0 or 3-1, you win.
If City wins 1-0, draws, or loses, you lose.
Example 2: Liverpool (-1) vs Aston Villa
You bet on Liverpool -1.
If Liverpool wins by 2+ goals, you win.
If Liverpool wins by 1 goal, it’s a push, and you get your money back.
If Liverpool draws or loses, you lose.
Example 3: Arsenal (+0.25) vs Chelsea
You bet on Arsenal +0.25.
Half your stake is on +0, half on +0.5.
If Arsenal draws, you win half your bet and the other half is refunded.
If Arsenal wins, they win.
If Arsenal loses, full loss.
Asian Handicap vs European Handicap
Feature | Asian Handicap | European Handicap |
Number of outcomes | Two (Win or Lose) | Three (Win, Draw, Lose) |
Stake refund? | Yes, in case of a push | No refunds |
Complexity | Slightly more complex | Simpler |
Market popularity | Asia, UK, betting exchanges | Europe, casual bettors |
Tips for Betting with Asian Handicap
Understand Team Strengths: Research form, injuries, and home advantage.
Use Quarter Handicaps Carefully: They split your stake — good for reducing risk.
Avoid Chasing Big Odds: Value lies in consistency, not wild wins.
Follow Market Movements: Sharp movements in handicap lines can reveal insider info.
Asian Handicap betting is a great tool for anyone who wants to dive deeper into strategic betting. By eliminating the draw and offering flexible options through quarter and half-goal handicaps, it can maximize your chances and minimize your losses.
Whether you're a football betting enthusiast or a serious punter looking to explore new markets, mastering Asian Handicap betting can significantly enhance your strategy.
If you're new to sports betting, check out our complete betting terms glossary to familiarize yourself with common terminology.
