Asian Handicap betting has always been the most popular market in football betting. So, how exactly does Asian Handicap betting work? And why is it so attractive to players? In today’s article at M88, bet win tips will walk you through everything you need to know.

What is Asian Handicap Betting?

Asian Handicap, also known simply as Handicap betting, originated in Asia and has since become widespread across the globe. Nowadays, it’s one of the most played betting types at international bookmakers, with M88 being a top choice for this market.

Asian Handicap works by leveling the playing field between two teams of different strengths. The stronger team (the favorite) gives a “handicap” to the weaker team (the underdog), based on odds set by the bookmaker in betting. Winning a handicap bet depends heavily on the final scoreline. Even if your chosen team wins the match, you can still lose the bet if they don’t cover the handicap.

The Most Common Types of Asian Handicap Bets

M88 provides players with a wide range of Asian Handicap betting lines. Each has its own payout rates, and success depends on understanding them clearly. Below are the most popular ones that I often play myself:

Level Handicap (0.0)
When the two teams are evenly matched, no handicap is given. If you pick the winning team, you win. If the match ends in a draw, your stake is refunded.

Handicap 0.25 (Quarter Ball)
Also called Draw No Bet – Half Loss. If the game ends in a draw, a bet on the favorite loses half the stake, while a bet on the underdog wins half. A win by either team pays out in full.

Handicap 0.5 (Half Ball)
The favorite must win the match outright for your bet to succeed. If the result is a draw or a loss for the favorite, you lose your stake.

Handicap 0.75 (Three-Quarter Ball)
If the favorite wins by 1 goal, bets on them win half the stake. A win by 2 or more goals pays out in full. Bets on the underdog lose half if they lose by 1 goal, but win fully if they draw or win.

Handicap 1.0 (One Ball)
The favorite must win by 2 or more goals to win fully. If they win by exactly 1, the bet is refunded. Any other result loses the bet.

Handicap 1.25 (One and a Quarter Ball)
If the favorite wins by 2 goals or more, bets on them win fully. If they win by 1 goal, the favorite side loses half the stake while the underdog side wins half.

Handicap 1.5 (One and a Half Balls)
The favorite must win by at least 2 goals to win the bet. If they only win by 1 goal, the bet loses completely.

Handicap 2.0 (Two Balls)
The favorite must win by 3 or more goals to win. A 2-goal win results in a refund, and anything less means a loss.

See more: 1st half three way bet

Types of Asian Handicap Betting Formats at M88

Besides different handicap lines, M88 also provides multiple formats of Asian Handicap betting:

Full-Time Asian Handicap
The most common format, settled over 90 minutes including stoppage time. Extra time does not count.

First-Half Asian Handicap
Bets are only settled based on the scoreline in the first half.

Second-Half Asian Handicap
Similar to the first-half bet, but results are determined only by the second half.

Extra-Time Asian Handicap
If the match goes into extra time, a separate handicap market is offered. Only goals scored in extra time count for these bets.

Tips for Winning with Asian Handicap Betting

If you already understand what Asian Handicap betting is and the different types of handicaps, you should also equip yourself with some betting strategies. Based on my experience at M88, here are two essential tips:

Bet on Major Leagues and Tournaments
Avoid small or low-profile competitions where reliable information is scarce, as this increases your risk. Stick to major tournaments such as the English Premier League, La Liga, Champions League, or Euro 2024. These leagues are transparent and easier to research, giving you a stronger edge.

Follow Expert Analysis Before Betting
Before each match, M88 experts often provide detailed predictions and breakdowns. Use these as valuable references, then combine them with your own analysis for more accurate betting decisions.

With the knowledge I’ve shared above, I hope you now clearly understand what Asian Handicap betting is and how to approach it effectively. Applying these strategies will help increase your win rate when betting at M88. I also wish you good luck and plenty of success in your sports betting journey!