What Is Double Chance in Betting Football? The Nigerian Punter's Guide
What Is Double Chance Betting?
Double chance betting is a way to bet on two possible outcomes in a single wager. Instead of just backing a home win, away win, or draw, you combine two of these options. So, your bet only loses if the third outcome happens.
Why Is It So Popular in Nigeria?
- Higher Winning Chances: You're covering 66.6% of possible outcomes, so your bet is more likely to win.
- Lower Risk: Perfect for matches where you're unsure of the result. No more “I almost won” stories.
- Great for Accumulators: Adding double chance bets to your acca can increase your odds of winning.
But remember: The odds are lower because the risk is reduced. You won't win as much as a single-outcome bet, but the extra security is often worth it. Small profit is better than big loss, abeg.
How Does Double Chance Work?
Double chance betting gives you three main options:
- 1X (Home Win or Draw): You win if the home team wins or the match ends in a draw.
- Example: If you bet on Enyimba vs Kano Pillars (1X), you win if Enyimba wins or the match draws. You only lose if Kano Pillars wins.
- X2 (Draw or Away Win): You win if the away team wins or the match ends in a draw.
- Example: If you bet on Rivers United vs Plateau United (X2), you win if Plateau United wins or the match draws. You only lose if Rivers United wins.
- 12 (Home Win or Away Win): You win if either team wins, but you lose if it's a draw.
- Example: If you bet on Akwa United vs Lobi Stars (12), you win if either team wins. You lose if it's a draw.
How Do the Odds Work?
- A straight home win might pay 2.00 odds.
- A 1X double chance could pay 1.40 odds.
- The trade-off is clear: less risk, but smaller payouts.
Think of it this way: Would you rather win a little more often or risk everything for a big payout? No be juju, just strategy.
When Should You Use Double Chance Betting?
1. When You're Unsure of the Winner
If you can't decide between a home win or a draw, 1X is your best friend. It's perfect for matches where the home team is strong but the away team is no pushover.
2. Betting on Favorites Conservatively
If a team like Manchester City is playing a weaker side, betting on 1X (home win or draw) is a safer move than just backing the home win. Even if City doesn't win, a draw keeps your bet alive.
3. Hedging Your Bets in Accumulators
Double chance is great for reducing risk in accumulators. For example, if you have a 5-match acca and one leg is a toss-up, adding a double chance bet can save your entire ticket. No more “one match spoil my acca” stories.
4. Matches Where Draws Are Common
In leagues like the Italian Serie A or NPFL, where draws are frequent, double chance bets (especially 1X or X2) can be a smart play. No be every match go end with winner, abeg.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Double Chance Betting
✅ Advantages
- Higher Winning Probability: You're covering two outcomes, so your chances of winning are much higher.
- Lower Risk: Ideal for beginners or punters who prefer safer bets.
- Flexibility: Works well in accumulators and live betting.
❌ Disadvantages
- Lower Payouts: The odds are shorter, so you win less compared to single-outcome bets.
- Not for High-Risk Punters: If you're chasing big wins, double chance might not be your best option. No get rich quick here.
Ask yourself: Do you want to win small but steady, or risk it all for a big payout?
Tips and Strategies for Double Chance Betting
1. Study Team Form and Head-to-Head Stats
Always check:
- Recent performance (last 5 matches)
- Home/away records
- Injuries and suspensions
- Head-to-head history
Example: If Enyimba hasn't lost at home in 10 matches, betting on 1X for their next home match is a solid strategy. No be by mouth, check records.
2. Combine with Other Bet Types
Add double chance to other markets like over 0.5 goals or both teams to score for a safer accumulator.
3. Use Double Chance for Underdogs
If you think an underdog can avoid defeat, X2 (draw or away win) is a smart play. It's a safer way to back the underdog without needing them to win outright. Small team fit surprise you.
4. Avoid Heavy Favorites
Betting on 1X for a team like Bayern Munich at home might seem safe, but the odds will be very low. Look for value in balanced matches instead. No dey waste money on small odds