What is a handicap bet?

For example, Handicap 0:1 means that Team 2 begins the game with a one-goal lead before kick-off. This handicap is then added to the final score of regular time – the result is evaluated including the handicap.

This type of bet is available with adjusted handicaps for almost all sports.

Example of a handicap bet in football (soccer):

You bet on Bayern Munich vs. Eintracht Frankfurt with a handicap of 0:1, which means Eintracht Frankfurt receives a one-goal head start. This head start must be added to the actual final result – this gives you the correct outcome of the handicap bet.

Further examples:

• Final score 2:0 → Tip (HC1) is correct, since the HC result is 2:1.

• Final score 1:0 → Tip (HCX) is correct, since the HC result is 1:1.

• Final score 1:1 → Tip (HC2) is correct, since the HC result is 1:2.

• Final score 1:2 → Tip (HC2) is correct, since the HC result is 1:3.

HC betting options:

• HC1 → Team 1 wins the match including the handicap.

• HC2 → Team 2 wins the match including the handicap.

• HCX → The match ends in a draw including the handicap.

An example:

Schalke (-0.5) vs. Dortmund (+0.5), odds 1.90:1.90.
In this case, Schalke is the favorite against Dortmund and receives a half-goal handicap (-0.5). Dortmund, as the underdog, gets a half-goal head start (+0.5).

Let’s assume the bettor stakes exactly €10 on Schalke Handicap (-0.5) at odds of 1.90.

• If Schalke wins the match, the bet is won and the payout is €10 × 1.90 = €19.

• If the match ends in a draw or Dortmund wins, the bet is lost.

Asian Handicap betting is available at MERKUR BETS not only with the factor 0.5, but also with 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5.