What is a 2-Handicap Bet? The Most Effective Strategies to Win Big
The football betting market is growing rapidly, attracting a massive number of players thanks to its diverse and exciting types of bets. Among them, the 2-handicap bet is especially popular and widely favored by many punters. In this article, W88 will explain what a 2-handicap bet is and share free football prediction tips with you the most effective strategies to increase your chances of winning!
What is a 2-Handicap Bet?
A 2-handicap bet, also commonly known as “level 2 handicap,” is a type of Asian handicap bet that is highly popular in today’s sports betting scene. This bet type features a relatively high handicap and is often seen in matches where there’s a significant difference in skill level between the two teams.
The 2-handicap bet works as follows: the stronger team (the favorite or the upper-hand team) gives a 2-goal advantage to the weaker team (the underdog or the lower-hand team). That means, before the match even starts, the underdog is considered to be leading by 2 goals on the betting line.
When placing a bet on this type of legit soccer prediction site handicap, three outcomes are possible depending on the final result:
Scenario 1: If the stronger team wins by exactly 2 goals, the match is considered a draw on the betting slip. In this case, whether you bet on the favorite or the underdog, your bet is refunded in full.
Scenario 2: If the stronger team wins by 3 goals or more, then bets placed on the favorite win, and bets on the underdog lose.
Scenario 3: If the stronger team loses, draws, or wins by only 1 goal, then bets on the favorite lose, while bets on the underdog win.
How to Read a 2-Handicap Bet “Simply and Accurately” for Beginners
Let’s consider a practical example to make this clearer:
During the AFF Cup 2016, there was a match between Vietnam and Thailand. Vietnam was considered significantly download soccer prediction app stronger than Thailand, so the bookmaker set a 2-goal handicap in Vietnam’s favor.
Vietnam was the favorite and had to give Thailand a 2-goal advantage.
The odds were: Vietnam (-2) at 0.97 and Thailand (+2) at 0.91.
If a player placed a 100,000 VND bet on either side, there are three possible outcomes:
1. If Vietnam wins by 3 goals or more, a bet on Vietnam wins:→ Return: 100,000 + 100,000 × 0.97 = 197,000 VND→ A bet on Thailand loses.
2. If Vietnam wins by exactly 2 goals, the match is considered a draw in betting terms:→ Both Vietnam and Thailand bettors get their stake back.
3. If Vietnam wins by 1 goal, draws, or loses, a bet on Vietnam loses, and a bet on Thailand wins:→ Return: 100,000 + 100,000 × 0.91 = 191,000 VND
Pro Tips for Betting on 2-Handicap Matches Like a Pro
The 2-handicap bet is one of the most favored types of Asian handicap bets, especially among experienced punters. However, due to the high stakes and significant disparities between teams, winning these bets consistently isn’t easy. Below are some top-notch strategies shared by seasoned betting experts to help you increase your chances of winning:
1. Understand Everything About the Bet Type
Before placing a bet, especially with a 2-handicap, make sure you fully understand how this type of bet works. Learn the basics—what is a favorite, what is an underdog, how the handicap works, and what the payout odds are. This foundational knowledge will help you make smarter, more informed betting decisions.
You can easily find detailed information about these bet types on trusted websites or by following seasoned bettors online. Take your time to study and memorize these details.
2. Thoroughly Analyze All Match-Related Information
Researching team news and match dynamics is essential for every type of bet—not just the 2-handicap. Surprisingly, many bettors still skip this step, assuming their general knowledge of the teams is sufficient.
However, team situations can change drastically just hours or even minutes before a match starts—injuries, weather, changes in the starting lineup, and more. Stay updated and analyze everything carefully so you can adjust your betting strategy in real time.
3. Compare Expert Analyses from Multiple Bookmakers
Another valuable tip is to follow match previews and odds analysis from multiple sportsbooks. Each bookmaker has a team of experts and analysts who offer insights before a match begins. Comparing their predictions gives you a more objective, multi-angled view of the game.
Doing this helps you spot traps or misleading lines set by bookmakers and allows you to predict possible upsets or surprise outcomes more effectively.
Final Thoughts
This article has provided a detailed explanation of what a 2-handicap bet is and offered expert insights to help you win big. Hopefully, these tips will make your betting experience not only more enjoyable but also more profitable. Don’t forget: the key to success in football betting is understanding the game, staying updated with information, and using a strategic mindset.