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Term
Double Chance
Quick Summary
Double chance is a betting market that allows you to cover two of the three possible match outcomes in a single wager. This article explains how it works, when it can reduce risk, and where it fits in the broader context of betting markets.
What Is a Double Chance Bet?
Double chance lets you bet on two outcomes instead of one. It’s most commonly offered in sports where matches can end in a draw, such as soccer, hockey, and handball.
In a standard 3-way match market, the outcomes are:
- Home win
- Draw
- Away win
Double chance combinations include:
- 1X (Home win or draw) – Wins if the home team avoids defeat
- X2 (Draw or away win) – Wins if the away team avoids defeat
- 12 (Home or away win) – Wins if either team wins (no draw)
For example, betting "Manchester City or Draw" (1X) would pay out if City wins or ties but would lose if Arsenal wins.
How It Works
Double chance increases your chance of winning by covering two outcomes, but this higher win probability comes at the cost of lower odds.
Example:
- Standard moneyline: Manchester City to win = +150 (2.50 decimal odds)
- Double chance (1X): Manchester City or Draw = -120 (1.83 decimal odds)
The probability of a win rises (from ~40% to ~67%), but the payout is reduced accordingly.
Pros and Cons of Double Chance
Pros
- Covers two outcomes, increasing win probability
- Useful when backing underdogs to avoid defeat
- Reduces risk in games where a draw is likely
- Can stabilize parlays by lowering variance on one leg
Cons
- Odds are significantly lower than full-result markets
- Offers poor value on heavy favorites
- May reduce long-term upside if used without selectivity
- Requires discipline to avoid overuse
How to Place a Double Chance Bet
1. Find the match
Double chance is available in most sportsbooks for soccer and similar sports. Navigate to the match and locate the “Double Chance” market.
2. Select your option
Choose the two outcomes you want to cover.
Example: "Draw or Inter Miami" (-285), or "Al Ahly or Inter Miami" (-350)
3. Set your stake
Enter the wager amount in your bet slip. The potential payout is automatically calculated.
4. Track the bet
After placing it, monitor your bet status. If the result matches either of your selected outcomes, the bet is graded as a win.
Smarter Applications of Double Chance
- Support underdogs safely: Bet on teams you expect to avoid defeat without needing them to win outright
- Fade favorites: Use double chance to cover a draw if you're skeptical a favorite will dominate
- Protect parlays: Replace a full-result leg with double chance to reduce exposure
- Assess match dynamics: In low-scoring leagues or rivalries, the draw outcome may be undervalued
- Use market benchmarks: Compare against sharper sportsbooks to assess whether the double chance price reflects fair value
- Be selective: Don’t rely on this market by default. Use only when odds offer a true edge
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you lose a double chance bet?
You lose if the match ends in the one outcome not covered by your selection.
What is double chance 2X?
It means you’re betting on either a draw or an away team win.
Does double chance include extra time?
No. It only applies to the result at the end of regular time (90 minutes + stoppage).
Is double chance better than draw no bet?
Double chance has more coverage but lower odds. Draw no bet offers higher returns with partial protection.
When should I use double chance?
In matches where the draw is plausible or when backing an underdog to avoid defeat.
Can I use double chance in a parlay?
Yes, it’s a common tactic to stabilize parlays by reducing the volatility of one leg.
Do all sportsbooks offer double chance?
Most do for soccer and select other sports that allow draws.
Learn More
For additional educational resources on betting mechanics and probability, visit The Advantage, our content hub for sharp, objective sports betting insights.