European Handicap is one of the most popular football betting options used by bettors who want better odds and more excitement in their wagers. Unlike the Asian Handicap, which removes the possibility of a draw, the European Handicapstill allows for three possible outcomes — Home Win, Draw, or Away Win after applying the handicap.
What Is European Handicap in Football Betting?
The European Handicap (EH) is a betting market that gives one team a virtual advantage or disadvantage before the match starts. This levels the playing field between a strong team (favourite) and a weaker one (underdog).
Bookmakers apply a goal handicap such as -1, -2, or +1 to one of the teams. The result of the bet is determined after adjusting the final match score with that handicap.
The key difference between European Handicap and Asian Handicap is that the European version includes the draw option, while Asian Handicap eliminates the draw completely.
Example of European Handicap Explained
Let’s use a real example to make it clear:
Match:
Manchester City vs Burnley
Handicap Market:
Manchester City (-1) | Draw (-1) | Burnley (+1)
What It Means:
- Manchester City (-1): City must win by 2 or more goals (e.g. 3–1, 4–0) for your bet to win.
- Draw (-1): You win if Manchester City wins by exactly 1 goal (e.g. 2–1, 1–0).
- Burnley (+1): You win if Burnley draws or wins the match (e.g. 1–1, 2–2, 0–1).
Another Example: European Handicap (-2)
Match:
Barcelona vs Getafe
Handicap Market:
Barcelona (-2) | Draw (-2) | Getafe (+2)
Outcomes:
- Barcelona (-2): Bet wins if Barcelona wins by 3 or more goals (e.g. 4–0, 5–1).
- Draw (-2): Bet wins if Barcelona wins by exactly 2 goals (e.g. 3–1, 4–2).
- Getafe (+2): Bet wins if Getafe loses by 1 goal, draws, or wins (e.g. 2–1, 1–1, 1–2).
Betting Tips for European Handicap
- Understand Team Strengths:
Choose handicaps wisely. Strong teams like Manchester City, Real Madrid, or Bayern Munich often dominate weaker teams, so a -1 or -2 handicap might be valuable. - Use Recent Form and Motivation:
Look at team form, fatigue, and competition importance. A top team might rest key players in a minor cup game, making a +1 handicap on the opponent more appealing. - Avoid Overconfidence:
A team might win but not cover a large handicap. For example, if Barcelona wins 2–1 with a -2 handicap, your bet loses. - Best for Favourites and Underdogs:
If you expect a close match, betting the underdog with a +1 or +2 handicap can be safer and still give good value. - Compare Odds:
Different bookmakers (like Bet9ja, 1xBet, or BetKing) may offer slightly different odds on European Handicap markets. Always compare before placing your bet.
Summary: Why Bet on European Handicap?
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Better Odds | Offers higher returns compared to standard 1X2 markets |
| Balanced Bets | Levels the difference between strong and weak teams |
| Skill-Based | Rewards bettors who understand team strengths and scorelines |
| More Outcomes | Includes Draw option unlike Asian Handicap |
Final Betting Tip
When betting on European Handicap, think in terms of goals difference.
If you believe a team will win comfortably, choose -1 or -2.
If you expect a tight contest, back the underdog with +1 or +2.
Always check form, injuries, and motivation before placing your bet.
Example Bet:
Match: Manchester City vs Burnley
Bet: Manchester City (-1)
Result: City wins 3–1 → Bet Wins
Key Takeaway:
European Handicap betting is a smart way to get better odds and value from one-sided football matches. Learn how handicaps affect outcomes, and you’ll improve your winning chances in no time!