Krishi is an enthusiastic sports betting writer and editor for BBI, always on the lookout to simplify decisions around picking the best casinos for maximum rewards. When he's not reviewing online casinos and betting sites, Krishi is preparing buying guides on everything tech, from smartphones, laptops, antivirus solutions, and VPNs. He's equally adept in writing about software, and you can find his work on Techopedia and The Tech Report.
All posts by Krishi ChowdharyDavid spent 25 years as both a writer and editor within the betting/casino industries - including at The Guardian, Racing Post, 888Casino and Sky Sports Racing - prior to joining BBI. He has a diploma in sub-editing and law, is the author of four books, and remains a successful sports tipster.
All posts by David MyersThe ‘double chance’ bet is one of the most popular in the dynamic world of soccer betting, and understanding the intricacies of different betting options can make all the difference between a casual bet and an informed strategy.
Among the various options available, the double chance bet has caught the attention of many, thanks to its unique approach and increased chances of success. As you delve deeper into this article, we’ll explore what double chance means in soccer betting, explaining its fundamentals, practical applications, and the optimal scenarios to deploy this strategy.
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What Does Double Chance Mean In Soccer Betting?
So, what is double chance in soccer? At its core, the double chance bet allows a punter to cover two of the three possible outcomes of a soccer game, thereby enhancing their chance of a successful bet. In traditional 1X2 betting, bettors choose from either the home team winning, or for the away team to win or draw.
Double chance, as the name suggests, lets you combine two of these possibilities. What does this mean in soccer betting? Essentially, although it offers reduced odds due to the increased likelihood of winning, the soccer double chance offers punters a safer betting prospect. It gives three options to punters to bet, which are as follows.
Home Team Wins the Match or Draws
This option caters to those who believe the home team has a strong chance of either winning or drawing the match. It provides coverage against unexpected outcomes, particularly when the home team has a historically strong performance on their home ground. This can be an ideal choice if the home team has been performing well in recent matches or has a track record of not losing at home. It’s especially useful when facing teams that might be evenly matched or when the away team has a history of drawing matches when playing away.
Away Team Wins the Match or Draws
Here, you’re banking on the strength or resilience of the away team. The bet will be successful if the away team wins or if the match concludes as a draw. This option is fitting when the away team is in good form, or the home team has been struggling in their recent matches. It’s also viable when the away team has a reputation for holding strong teams to draw in away fixtures.
Home or Away Team Wins
This choice is a bet against the draw. It doesn’t matter which team comes out on top; as long as the match produces a winner, the bet is victorious. This bet is particularly effective for matches where both teams are known for their competitive nature and aggressive gameplay, making draws less likely. Matches between two high-scoring teams or teams that rarely draw are prime candidates for this option.
Let’s consider a hypothetical soccer match between Team A (home side) and Team B (away side). Both teams are known for their aggressive play, often scoring and conceding plenty of goals. Their previous matches indicate that they rarely end games in draws.
Given this scenario, the “Home or Away Team to Win” option would be strategic. You’d bet that the match won’t result in a draw, so regardless of whether Team A or Team B wins, your bet would be successful. This demonstrates how understanding what is a double chance bet in soccer can be used to strategize bets based on teams’ previous performances.
What are Examples of a Double Chance Soccer Bet?
To understand what does double chance means in soccer betting, here are a few examples. Double chance bets are most effective in leagues and competitions where there is a lot of parity between the teams. This is because there is a higher chance of a draw in these leagues, which gives you an extra outcome to cover with your bet. Some of the main leagues and competitions where double chance bets are most effective include:
English Premier League
In the 2022-2023 EPL season, draws accounted for 25.8% of outcomes, the highest since the 2013-2014 season, while home teams boasted a 61.3% win rate, the most dominant since the 2014-2015 season. Despite this, away team victories remained stable around 13%, indicating that while home field advantage is prevalent, away teams maintain competitiveness.
La Liga
La Liga is another very competitive league, with Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid all vying for the title each season. During the 2022-2023 La Liga season, draws reached a notable 24.5%, the most since 2017-2018, while home teams secured victories in 61.6% of matches, a rate unmatched since the 2016-2017 season. Interestingly, away team triumphs also peaked at 14.2%, a percentage not seen since the 2018-2019 season.
Bundesliga
The Bundesliga is another of the top European Leagues where the top teams are usually very strong, but there are also a number of mid-table teams that can challenge for a win on any given day. In the 2022-2023 Bundesliga season, a notable 28.6% of matches ended in draws, the highest since the 2016-2017 season. Home teams dominated with a 64% win rate, a peak not observed since the 2014-2015 season, while away teams only managed a 7.5% victory rate, marking the lowest since 2016-2017.
Major League Soccer (MLS)
Away from Europe there is of course, the Major League Soccer (MLS), which has grown in stature over the last 15 years, and is always a big hit in the US markets. As for how the double chance rates in this league, then a glance at the 2023 season shows that 29% of the matches ended in stalemate, which is higher than the European leagues, which could offer double chance players in the U.S. a real edge.
Cup Competitions
Finally, double chance bets can also be a good option in cup competitions, where teams may be more willing to settle for a draw in order to progress to the next round. For example, one team that is the underdog in a cup match may be happy to draw this decisive match and take it to extra time or penalties.
In the 2022-2023 season, UEFA competitions witnessed some intriguing draw statistics. The Champions League experienced its highest draw rate since 2005-2006 at 21.3% from its 136 matches. Meanwhile, the Europa League saw a 19.2% draw rate, its peak since 2014-2015. Contrarily, the Europa Conference League recorded a mere 16.4% draw percentage, the lowest since its inception in 2021-2022.
Types of Double Chance Bets
In the intricate realm of soccer betting, the double chance bet offers a unique blend of safety and strategy. However, there are distinct types of double chance bets, each with its strategic depth. We’ll delve into the three primary types:
Soccer Double Chance 1X Meaning
This bet means you are wagering on either the home team to win or the match to end in a draw. Essentially, you’re excluding the possibility of the away team winning. It’s an excellent strategy when the home team has a dominant record on their ground or when both teams seem evenly matched, increasing the probability of a draw – in the example below between Tottenham and Manchester United, the 1X bet at -154 is for Tottenham to either win or draw the match at home.
Soccer Double Chance X2 Meaning
Here, you’re betting on the match either ending in a win or draw – more precisely, for a draw or the away team clinching victory. This approach is useful when the away team has shown resilience or good form in their away matches or when the home team’s form is questionable, increasing the chances of either a draw or an away team win.
Soccer Double Chance 12 Meaning
In this option, you’re betting on any definite outcome – either the home team wins, or the away team does. The draw is entirely out of the equation. This bet type gets intriguing when integrating the ’12 strategy’. The strategy revolves around games where a draw is least preferred or the chances of a draw are minimal.
Such scenarios arise when both teams have aggressive playing styles, making them more prone to a conclusive result rather than a stalemate. Alternatively, in cup competitions, one team might be vying to avoid a draw as it could lead to a replay, making matches more draining and challenging.
You can combine this bet with over under betting in soccer games that are almost sure to produce a result. Or you can split your overall betting fund between these two bets.
Bet Type Outcome Risk Payout Double Chance 1X Home win or draw Low Medium Double Chance X2 Draw or away win Low Medium Double Chance 12 Home win or away win Medium Low How Is A Double Chance Soccer Bet Calculated?
As many as 20.5 million Americans planned to bet around $1.8 billion during the FIFA World Cup 2022. And, when it comes to soccer betting, the double chance bet stands out as a popular choice for those seeking to maximize their probability of winning. But how is it calculated, and what makes its odds so distinct?
Understanding the Calculation
A traditional soccer match has three possible outcomes: the home team wins, the away team wins, or the match ends in a draw. When betting on a single outcome, your chance of predicting correctly is 33.3%. However, with a double chance bet, you’re covering two out of these three outcomes, effectively boosting your chances to 66.6%.
Comparing with Traditional Odds
Let’s consider a hypothetical game between Team A and Team B. If Team A has odds of 2.50 to win and Team B has odds of 2.80, the odds for a draw might be set at 3.20. Betting on just Team A would mean you’re taking the 33.3% chance with the 2.50 odds. However, with a double chance bet on Team A or a draw, you’re combining the individual probabilities.
How Sportsbooks Reflect These Odds
Given the increased probability of winning with a double chance, the odds will naturally be lower. Using our previous example, the odds for Team A or a draw might be set around 1.40 to 1.50, reflecting the 66.6% chance. It’s essential to understand this when evaluating potential returns.
Automated Calculations
The beauty of modern betting platforms is the ease they offer. When you opt for a double chance bet, sportsbooks automatically calculate and display the adjusted odds on the betting coupon, ensuring punters can make informed decisions without manually crunching the numbers.
In essence, the double chance bet offers a safety net, giving bettors a higher probability of success, albeit at reduced potential returns. It’s a balancing act of risk and reward, making it a favorite for many in the soccer betting community.
What Is a Good Strategy for Double Chance Betting?
After understanding what does double chance mean in soccer betting, mastering its nuances requires understanding several intricacies. By employing a well-thought-out strategy, bettors can maximize their chances of success. So, how should one approach a double chance soccer bet?
Research, Recent Form, and Stats
The foundation of any betting strategy lies in thorough research. Delving into teams’ recent forms can offer crucial insights. How have they performed in their last several matches? Teams with consistent non-draw records may make the 12 (home win or away win) bet more appealing.
Team Dynamics – Win, Lose, No Draw
Some teams, owing to their tactical approaches, seldom settle for draws. Identifying these teams provides an edge. Teams known for their attacking spirit and those with a “never settle” attitude usually fit this profile. For example, Manchester City and Liverpool, during the 2022-2023 season, showcased a distinct aversion to draws, with City drawing in merely 4 of 38 matches and Liverpool in just 5.
News and Injuries
Staying updated with team news is pivotal. An injury to a star player or a sudden coaching change can dramatically alter a team’s prospects. Such nuances can influence match outcomes and should inform your double chance predictions.
Strong Defenses and Offensive Duds
Teams recognized for their defensive prowess, but lackluster attacks can be gold mines for double chance bets. Such teams might not be prolific scorers, but they often prevent opponents from scoring. Betting on them to either win or draw (1X or X2) could prove a wise strategic move.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Double Chance Betting in Soccer?
Understanding the merits and demerits of double chance is essential. So, what does double chance mean in soccer betting when we discuss its pros and cons?
Pros
- Higher Winning Chances: By covering two out of three possible outcomes, the chances of a successful bet inherently increase.
- Underdog Protection: Betting on the underdog can be dicey. With double chance, there’s a cushion, allowing for possible upsets or unforeseen draws.
- Flexibility: Double chance in soccer caters to various betting temperaments, from conservative to adventurous.
- Mitigating Losses: For those looking to maintain a steady betting record without significant dips, double chance can be a safer route.
- Tactical Betting: By analyzing teams’ strengths and weaknesses, bettors can craft specific strategies tailored for double chance outcomes.
Cons
- Lowered Odds: Increased safety comes at the cost of reduced potential payouts.
- Risk of Overconfidence: The apparent safety of double chance bets might lead to complacency, making bettors overlook vital research or data.
How Do I Make a Double Chance Bet?
Diving into the world of soccer betting apps with double chance? Here’s how to navigate it in just a few easy steps.
- Open an Account: Visit a trusted sports betting website. Hit the “Sign Up” or “Register” option. Provide the necessary details to set up your account.
- Select a Match: Head to the site’s soccer section. Browse the available games and fixtures. Pick the match you’re interested in betting on.
- Choose Double Chance: Identify the “Double Chance” betting section. This bet covers two of three possible outcomes. Select from 1X, X2, or 12 as your choice.
- Place Your Bet: Key in the amount you want to wager. Check the potential returns on your slip. Confirm your selection to finalize the bet.
- Wait for Results: Stay updated with the match’s progress. Once concluded, the site evaluates your bet. If successful, your winning bet triggers the winnings to your balance.
FAQs
What does double chance 12 mean in soccer betting?
In the realm of soccer betting, double chance 12 implies betting on either the home team (1) or the away team (2) to win, with no provision for a draw. Essentially, your bet wins if the match doesn’t end in a draw. It’s one of the variations of the double chance soccer bet.
Is double chance betting profitable in soccer?
Double chance betting can be profitable in soccer if used strategically. Its primary advantage is offering better chances of winning by covering two out of three possible outcomes. However, this safety comes with shorter odds. To ensure profitability, bettors should combine it with thorough research and tactical insights.
Can I combine Double Chance bets with other soccer bets?
Absolutely! Bettors can integrate a double chance soccer bet with other betting options like Over/Under goals, Both Teams to Score, or even specific player bets. Combining bets can amplify potential returns, but it’s essential to understand the added risks associated with multiple bets.
Are Double Chance bets the same as a money line?
No, they’re distinct. The money line involves picking a straight-up winner, whereas double chance in soccer betting allows bettors to cover two of the three possible game outcomes, enhancing the odds of winning but at reduced potential payouts.
Does a Double Chance bet include extra-time?
Typically, a double chance bet in soccer pertains only to the regulation 90 minutes plus injury time. Unless explicitly specified, it does not include extra time or penalty shootouts. Bettors should always check with their sportsbook to understand the terms of their wagers.
Is Double Chance the same as Draw No Bet?
No. While it is similar as it involves two outcomes, the Draw No Bet simply returns a refund on your stake if the outcome is a draw, and there is no profit.
Krishi is an enthusiastic sports betting writer and editor for BBI, always on the lookout to simplify decisions around picking the best casinos for maximum rewards. When he's not reviewing online casinos and betting sites, Krishi is preparing buying guides on everything tech, from smartphones, laptops, antivirus solutions, and VPNs. He's equally adept in writing about software, and you can find his work on Techopedia and The Tech Report.
All posts by Krishi ChowdharyKrishi is an enthusiastic sports betting writer and editor for BBI, always on the lookout to simplify decisions around picking the best casinos for maximum rewards. When he's not reviewing online casinos and betting sites, Krishi is preparing buying guides on everything tech, from smartphones, laptops, antivirus solutions, and VPNs. He's equally adept in writing about software, and you can find his work on Techopedia and The Tech Report.
All posts by Krishi Chowdhary