What is Double Chance Betting?
Double chance is one of the most popular betting markets for players who want to reduce risk while still staying active in a match. Instead of picking just one outcome, a double chance allows you to cover two possible results in a single bet. This makes it a safer option compared to standard match result betting, especially in games that are difficult to predict.
It is commonly used by beginners and experienced bettors alike, particularly in football betting.
What is Double Chance Betting?
Double chance betting allows you to combine two match outcomes into one selection. You are backing two results instead of one, increasing your chances of winning.
The three double chance options are:
- 1X – Home win or draw
- 12 – Home win or away win
- X2 – Draw or away win
Your bet is settled based on the full-time result only.
How does Double Chance Work?
With double chance, your bet wins if either of the two selected outcomes happens. You only lose if the one remaining outcome occurs.
Because you are covering more outcomes, double chance markets usually offer:
- Lower odds than standard 1X2 betting
- A higher probability of winning
- Strong value when used in accumulators
It is often used when a team is expected to avoid defeat rather than to determine a clear winner.
Double Chance Betting Example
Match: Team A vs Team B
If you select 1X:
Your bet wins if Team A wins or if the match ends in a draw.
Your bet loses only if Team B wins.
If you select X2:
Your bet wins if the match is a draw or if Team B wins.
Your bet loses only if Team A wins.
If you select 12:
Your bet wins if either team wins.
Your bet loses only if the match ends in a draw.
When does a Double Chance Bet Settle?
A double chance bet settles at full-time. This includes injury time.
Extra time and penalties are not included. Once the final whistle blows at the end of normal time, the result is confirmed, and your bet is settled.
Comparisons
Double Chance vs 1X2
The main difference between double chance and 1X2 betting is the number of outcomes covered.
| Double Chance vs 1X2 | Double Chance vs Draw No Bet |
|---|---|
| With 1X2, you select only one result - Home win, draw, or away win | Double chance includes draws as a possible winning outcome |
| With a double chance, you cover two results in one bet | Draw no bet removes the draw. If the match ends in a draw, your stake is refunded |
| Double chance offers lower odds but reduces risk compared to 1X2 | Double chance offers more protection but lower odds |
| Draw no bet offers slightly higher odds but less coverage | |
| Both are useful risk management tools, depending on your betting strategy |
Pros and Cons
| Advantages of Double Chance Betting | Disadvantages of Double Chance Betting< |
|---|---|
| Reduced risk compared to 1X2 | Lower odds than single outcome markets |
| Easier to win, especially in close matches | Less value on strong favourites |
| Useful for backing favourites or strong away teams | Limited profit potential in single bets |
| Ideal for building safer accumulators |
When Should You Use Double Chance?
Double chance works best in:
- Unpredictable matches
- Games where one team is hard to beat
- Away teams in strong form
- Accumulators where consistency matters
It is especially useful when you want to stay involved in a match without taking unnecessary risks.