Asian handicap explained: -0.5, -1 and quarter lines
Asian handicap removes the draw by giving one team a head start. Here is how the common lines settle, when you get a refund and how quarter lines split your stake.
- Worked examples
- Plain English
- No profit promises
- 18+
The idea
A head start for one team, so the draw disappears.
Home -0.5
Home must win. A draw or a loss loses the bet.
Away +0.5
Away wins the bet if it wins or draws.
Home -1
Win by 2 or more wins. Win by exactly 1 returns your stake. A draw or a loss loses.
Quarter lines
-0.25 splits your stake between 0 and -0.5.
How to settle a handicap
Apply the handicap to the final score, then compare.
Home -1 vs Home +1
Final result and what happens to your bet.
| Home -1 vs Home +1 | Home -1 | Home +1 |
|---|---|---|
| Home wins by 2+ | Wins | Wins |
| Home wins by exactly 1 | Stake returned | Wins |
| Draw | Loses | Wins |
| Home loses by exactly 1 | Loses | Stake returned |
| Home loses by 2+ | Loses | Loses |
⚠️ This page is sports information, not a promise of profit. We do not take bets. Only stake what you can afford to lose and follow the betting rules of your country. 18+ only.
Frequently asked questions
What people ask us most.
Why is it called Asian?
The market became popular in Asian betting; the name stuck. It works the same for any football match.
What does -0.25 mean?
Half your stake goes on 0 (a draw returns it) and half on -0.5 (a draw loses), so a draw loses half your stake.
Does a refund count as a win?
No. A refund returns your stake with no profit or loss.
Is it harder than 1X2?
It needs a little arithmetic, but it removes the draw and often gives fairer prices.