Alternative Handicap Result Meaning Explained
If you have browsed a sportsbook or spoken with others about football betting, you may have come across the term “alternative handicap result.” It can be a bit confusing initially, particularly if you are more familiar with basic bet types.
Having a clear understanding of both handicap and alternative handicap options can provide useful insight when looking at different betting markets.
This article outlines what an alternative handicap result involves, how it works, and some points to consider before deciding to place a bet.
What Does Alternative Handicap Mean?
An alternative handicap is a type of bet commonly available in football, rugby, and other sports. Handicap betting involves assigning a starting advantage or disadvantage to one team in order to create a more balanced competition when one team is considered stronger.
The “alternative” element means you can choose from several handicap options instead of only the main line set by the bookmaker. For example, if the standard handicap is one goal, alternative choices might include two, three, or more goals. The odds will change depending on the handicap selected. You may notice plus (+) or minus (–) signs next to teams:
- +2: The selected team starts with two extra goals.
- –1: The selected team begins with a one-goal deficit.
Because bookmakers set their own handicap lines, the available alternative options may differ between websites. It can be useful to check how each handicap applies to the specific event and to review the rules provided by both the bookmaker and the sport’s governing body.
Alternative Handicap Bet Example
Suppose Manchester United are playing Newcastle United, and Manchester United is considered the stronger team. Rather than betting on them to win outright, you might look at an alternative handicap that provides additional options.
For example, if you select Manchester United –2, they would need to win by at least three goals for the bet to be successful. If the final score is 4-1 to Manchester United, subtracting the 2-goal handicap gives an adjusted score of 2-1. Since Manchester United remains ahead, this bet would be settled as a win.
Alternatively, if you choose Newcastle United +2 and the match ends 2-1 in favour of Manchester United, Newcastle’s adjusted score becomes 3 (1 goal plus 2), resulting in an adjusted score of 3-2 for Newcastle. In this case, the bet would be settled as a win.
Alternative handicaps provide more ways to consider the potential outcome of a match, which can affect both the odds and the likelihood of a particular selection. It can be helpful to understand how each handicap is settled, especially when selecting a line that differs from the standard handicap.
Other Types of Handicap Bets
There are various formats of handicap betting available across different sports markets.
Standard Handicap
This format applies a fixed advantage to one team and a deficit to the other. For example, if Team A is -1 and Team B is +1, the match score is adjusted accordingly before settling the bet.
Asian Handicap
Asian handicaps remove the draw option, leaving only two possible results. These can include lines like -0.5, +1.5, or split lines such as -1.25. The -1.25 line splits your stake between -1.0 and -1.5 handicaps, so part of your bet might win and part might lose depending on the match outcome.
Quarter or Split Handicaps
These bets divide your stake between two handicaps, such as +0.5 and +1.0. Depending on the final result, you may receive a partial refund of your stake. Different bookmakers may have specific rules for these bets, so it is advisable to check their terms before placing a wager.
Exploring the options available on your bookmaker’s platform can help you select bets that align with your understanding of the event.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.