What is Handicap 1? A Beginner’s Guide to Playing Effectively

Many players participate in online football betting for different reasons. Besides entertainment and relaxation, a major motivation is the desire to increase income. However, winning a Handicap 1 bet is not easy, especially for beginners. To earn big rewards from this type of bet, players must equip themselves with a solid understanding of the concept, how to read the odds, and how to play. win tips bet is here to share valuable insights from experts and top bettors.

Introduction to Handicap 1

To add more excitement to football betting, many major bookmakers offer the Handicap 1 bet. This type of bet was created to bring balance to matches where there is a significant skill gap between two teams. In footballers with headbands, there are two basic forms of handicaps: goal handicap and money handicap.

In goal handicap betting, the smallest line is ¼ goal, also known as 0.25. However, the Handicap 1 is far more commonly used, as discussed in this article by wintips.

How to Play Handicap 1 for Beginners

There are three possible outcomes for a Handicap 1 bet once the match ends:

Draw Bet: If the favored (handicap) team wins by exactly 1 goal, the result is a push—both bettors on either side get their money back.

Win Bet: If the favored team wins by 2 or more goals, those who bet on the favored side win the full bet.

Lose Bet: If the favored team draws or loses, those who bet on the underdog win the full bet.

Example from Wintips

Let’s consider a match between Torino vs Lazio in the Serie A. The main Asian handicap is Lazio giving 1 goal to Torino. A player places a $100 bet on Lazio to win, with a payout ratio of 0.83. The following outcomes are possible:

Lazio wins by 2+ goals → You win: $100 (stake) + $83 (profit = $100 × 0.83).

Lazio wins by exactly 1 goal → You get back your $100 stake (no profit or loss).

Lazio draws or loses → You lose the full $100 stake.

Another Example for Clarity

A match in the Colombian National Championship between Atletico Nacional vs Alianza Petrolera. The betting site list gives Atletico Nacional a 1-goal handicap, with a payout of 0.97. Again, three scenarios:

Alianza Petrolera wins or draws → You get back $100 + $97 profit.

Alianza loses by exactly 1 goal → You get your $100 stake back.

Alianza loses by 2+ goals → You lose your full $100 stake.

Winning Strategies from Experts

Experience and knowledge are key to consistent wins. If you’re new, start by applying the tried-and-true strategies from seasoned players:

1. Research Before the Match

To beat the bookies, it's crucial to study the teams before the match: lineups, form, and current strength.
Make sure to evaluate the win rate between the two teams. Bet on the team with a higher chance of winning. Be cautious and consider betting Under as a backup if the top team is giving a handicap.

High-Reward Betting Tips

The favored team (handicap giver) is often the better pick, especially in matches with Over/Under set at 2.5 and payout odds over 0.90.

If the Over/Under is set at 3, consider betting on the underdog.

Avoid Bookmaker Traps

Sometimes, when the two teams aren’t very different in quality, bookmakers still set a 1-goal handicap—this is often a trap. If you’re not confident, it’s better to skip the bet.

Patience is Key

Don’t rush your decisions. When the handicap is 1 and the Over/Under is 2.25, most matches won’t have a 2-goal difference. Observe carefully before placing your bet.

Home vs Away Strategy

Here’s another useful method:

If the away team gives the handicap, bet on the away team.

If the home team gives the handicap, bet on the home team—but only if their odds (payout rate) aren’t much higher than the away team. If the home team’s odds are much higher, bet on the away team instead.

Study home vs away stats. Some teams perform better at home, while others feel more pressure.

Notes When Playing Handicap 1

Most of the time, bettors win by choosing the favored (handicap-giving) team, especially if they’re the home side. But always analyze the venue, playing style, and form of both teams.

Leave yourself an exit strategy. Consider betting after the first goal (1-0). For higher winnings, bet Over at the beginning of the second half.

Never place a bet too early—observe and analyze thoroughly first.

Preparing yourself with the right knowledge about Handicap 1 betting is the first step toward success. If you’re a beginner, these tips are especially valuable. All of the insights above come from long-time, experienced bettors. Wintips hopes this guide helps you better understand Handicap 1 and win more consistently.