In the realm of sports betting, the handicap or spread market adds an intriguing dimension to wagering on teams or players. When you place a handicap or spread bet, you'll encounter the symbols "+" or "-", indicating that the team or player begins the match with either an advantage or disadvantage. The essence of this market lies in the requirement for the chosen team or player to achieve a specific outcome, factoring in the given handicap or spread.
Let's elucidate with an example: Suppose there's a match between "Manchester United" and "Team XYZ," and the handicap is set at "Manchester United -1." In this scenario, Manchester United starts the game with a handicap of one goal, effectively beginning the match at a score of 0-1. To win the bet, Manchester United must secure a victory with a goal difference of two or more. In other words, after considering the handicap, the final result must be in favor of Manchester United.
Conversely, if you place a bet on "Team XYZ +1," the handicap works in their favor, and they begin the game with a one-goal advantage. For your bet to be successful, Team XYZ can either win the match outright or draw, as the handicap gives them an extra goal on the scoreboard.
The purpose of the handicap or spread market is to level the playing field, especially when there's a clear mismatch between the two teams or players. It creates a more balanced betting opportunity by offering better odds for favorites to win convincingly and incentivizing bets on the underdogs with an added advantage.
In summary, the handicap or spread market in sports betting introduces an exciting twist, as it considers the advantage or disadvantage a team or player has before the match even begins. By comprehending the implications of the given handicap, you can make informed decisions and potentially enjoy greater success in your wagers.
*The data used in the screenshot are indicative.