Most people stick to the basics, when it comes to football betting -1×2 ( Draw, Home Win, Away win), over/under goals or Both Teams to Score.
There are betting markets that offer higher value and better odds that’s why professionals, high rollers and seasoned bookmakers often search for them.
A powerful bet type that has become a favorite among sharp players is the 3-Way Handicap, it is one one of the sure markets.
We are here to break down what a 3-Way Handicap is, why it could be the game-changer in your betting strategy and how it works, most especially in real matches, in this article.
Understanding the Basics of a Handicap Bet
To “level the playing field “ between two teams, that is what the handicap bet is designed for.
Sportsbooks use handicaps to make betting more balanced and competitive, since football often involves stronger teams facing weaker ones.
For instance, Bookmakers may give the weaker team a 2+goal advantage to even things out if Manchester City faces a newly promoted side.
For a handicap bet to succeed in the city, they have to win at least three goals.
What is a 3-Way Handicap?
There’s a difference between A 3-Way Handicap and regular handicap but there are similar but with one major difference: rather than getting two possible outcomes (handicap win or handicap loss) but it includes three outcomes – which are Home Win, Draw win and loss – this takes place after the handicap adjustment is being applied.
If the result is based on the adjusted scoreline rather than the actual final score, this makes it very similar to the traditional 1X2 market.
How Does a 3-Way Handicap Work?
This is some experimental examples:
Match: Barcelona vs Sevilla
3-Way Handicap Option: Barcelona-1
Barcelona -1 Win → these are some examples: if Barcelona wins by 2 or more goals that means you win for instance: (3-1, 4-0).
- Draw -1 → if Barcelona wins exactly by one goal thY means you have won. (Example., 2-1, 1-0)
- Sevilla +1 Win → if Sevilla wins or draws the match you win. (E.g., 1-1, 0-2, 2-2).
After applying the handicap the “three ways ” are created because a draw outcome is possible.
Difference Between Asian Handicap and 3-Way Handicap
Many new punters confuse the 3-Way Handicap with the Asian Handicap, but they are not the same.
- Asian Handicap do away with the draw option, meaning your bet will either win or lose ( or in some cases, be refunded).
- 3-Way Handicap if the draw usually gives you higher odds keep the draw as a valid betting option compared to Asian Handicap lines.
The 3-Way Handicap can be a great choice if you enjoy higher odds and are comfortable with a bit more risk.
Why Choose the 3-Way Handicap?
Here are reasons many punters prefer it:
- Higher Odds: The odds are generally more attractive than standard 1X2 betting since there are three possible outcomes.
- Great for Favorites: Betting on them with a handicap provides better value than the simple “win” market, if you believe a strong team will not only win but dominate.
- Strategic Value: Head-to-head records can find edges in handicap lines that casual punters overlook, punters who understand team goal-scoring ability and form.
Tips for Betting on 3-Way Handicap
- Know the Teams Well: When you have a strong confidence in a team this market is best used and it has the ability to win by a specific margin.
- Check Historical Data: Due to favorite thrash often, the games underdog or are the games usually tight? Look at the past meetings.
- Beware of Defensive Teams: Even against stronger sides some teams rarely lose by big margins, So avoid handicapping against them unless you’re confident.
- Compare Odds Across Bookmakers: A big difference in long-term profitability if small changes in handicap odds.
Example of a Winning Scenario
For instance you bet Liverpool-2(3-way Handicap) against Bournemouth.
- Your bet is a win (Liverpool-2), if Liverpool wins 3-0.
- The adjusted score becomes 0-0 meaning your bet is a draw. If Liverpool wins 2-0.
- The bet is a loss if Liverpool wins only 1-0, draws or loses.
Rewarding those who predict not just winning, but the margin of victory. This is an example showing how a 3-Way Handicap can separate winners from losers.
Final Thoughts
It’s a tool for punters who want to go beyond predicting simple wins. The 3-Way Handicap is more than just another betting market.
The challenge to evaluate scoring potential anticipates not just who will win, but by how much and you can read games more deeply.
The 3-Way Handicap could be the bet that separates you from casual bettors if you are tired of low odds on favorites and wants a sharper edge.
