The 0.25 handicap bet, also known as 1/4 or 0-0.5 (Quarter Ball Handicap), is one of the most common types of bets in football betting. While experienced bettors are familiar with it, new players may find it confusing.
To help you understand this bet type clearly, Wintips provides a detailed explanation below.
What is a 0.25 (1/4) Handicap Bet?
The 0.25 handicap can be referred to in three different ways:
1/4 Handicap
0.25 Handicap
0-0.5 Quarter Ball Handicap
All these names refer to the same bet type, where one team is given a 0.25 goal handicap advantage.
Now, let's break down how this bet works.
How Does the 0.25 Handicap Work?
1. If You Bet on the Favorite (Handicap -0.25, -1/4, -0-0.5)
If you choose to bet on the best online bookmaker (the favorite), the following outcomes apply:
✅ If the favorite wins by at least 1 goal (e.g., 1-0, 2-1, 2-0, etc.), you win the full bet amount.
➗ If the match ends in a draw, you lose half of your stake.
❌ If the underdog wins, you lose the full bet amount.
2. If You Bet on the Underdog (+0.25, +1/4, +0-0.5 Handicap)
If you bet on the weaker team (the underdog), the following results apply:
✅ If the underdog wins by at least 1 goal, you win the full bet amount.
➗ If the match ends in a draw, you win half of your stake.
❌ If the underdog loses by 1 goal or more, you lose the full bet amount.
Example with Real Odds
Let’s look at a real match scenario:
Match: Melbourne Victory vs. Newcastle Jets
Melbourne Victory is the favorite, giving a 0.25 (1/4) handicap to Newcastle Jets.
Odds for Melbourne Victory: 0.95
Odds for Newcastle Jets: 0.97
If You Bet on Melbourne Victory (-0.25, -1/4, -0-0.5)
1️⃣ If Melbourne Victory wins by 1 goal or more (1-0, 2-1, 2-0, etc.), you win the full amount at 0.95 odds (Bet 1000 to win 950).
2️⃣ If the match ends in a draw (0-0, 1-1, 2-2, etc.), you lose half your bet (Bet 1000, lose 500, keep 500).
3️⃣ If Melbourne Victory loses, you lose the full bet amount (Bet 1000, lose 1000).
If You Bet on Newcastle Jets (+0.25, +1/4, +0-0.5)
1️⃣ If Newcastle Jets wins, you win the full amount at 0.97 odds (Bet 1000 to win 970).
2️⃣ If the match ends in a draw, you win half the bet (Bet 1000, win 485).
3️⃣ If Newcastle Jets loses, you lose the full bet amount (Bet 1000, lose 1000).
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve learned how the 0.25 (1/4) handicap bet works, you should have a clearer understanding of how to apply it in football prediction app.
This bet type is great for players looking to reduce risk, as betting on the underdog provides a chance to still earn half a win in case of a draw.
Good luck, and may your bets be successful!