Double chance is a popular type of bet in sports betting that allows you to cover two possible outcomes in a match instead of just one. Normally, when you bet on a game, you pick one outcome — for example, Team A wins. But with double chance, you can bet on two outcomes simultaneously, such as:
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Team A wins or the match ends in a draw
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Team B wins or the match ends in a draw
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Team A wins or Team B wins (meaning the match will not end in a draw)
If either of the two outcomes you bet on occurs, your bet wins.
How Does Double Chance Increase My Chances of Winning?
By covering two outcomes instead of one, your probability of winning the bet increases significantly. In a typical three-way market (Home Win, Draw, Away Win), your chance of winning with a single bet is roughly 33% if all outcomes were equally likely. With double chance, you’re covering two of these outcomes, so your chances jump to about 66%.
For example, if you bet on “Team A wins or draw,” you lose only if Team B wins. This makes double chance a much safer option compared to betting on just one outcome.
Is Double Chance a Safer Betting Option?
Yes, double chance is generally considered a safer betting option because it reduces the risk of losing by covering two outcomes. It’s particularly useful when you believe a certain team is unlikely to lose but are unsure whether they will win or draw.
However, the trade-off for this increased safety is lower odds. Since you have a higher chance of winning, bookmakers offer smaller payouts compared to betting on a single outcome.
How Do Bookmakers Calculate Odds for Double Chance Bets?
Bookmakers calculate double chance odds by combining the probabilities of the two outcomes you are betting on. Since the probability of two events happening is the sum of their individual probabilities (minus any overlap, which in this case doesn’t apply since the outcomes are mutually exclusive), the combined chance is higher.
For example, if the odds for:
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Team A to win are 2.50 (implying a 40% chance)
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Draw is 3.00 (implying a 33% chance)
Then the combined chance for “Team A or Draw” might be around 73% (40% + 33%), and the odds offered would reflect that increased probability, often somewhere near 1.35 to 1.50, depending on the bookmaker’s margin.
Can Double Chance Be Used in Different Sports or Markets?
Yes! While double chance is most common in football (soccer) due to its three-way outcome structure (home win, draw, away win), the concept can be adapted to other sports or markets where multiple possible outcomes exist. For example:
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In hockey or basketball (which typically have only two possible results), double chance is less relevant.
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In tennis, you might find similar “double outcome” bets like “player A to win in straight sets or in a deciding set.”
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Some bookmakers extend the idea to other markets, such as “Team A to win or over 2.5 goals scored” — combining outcome and statistics.
Pros and Cons of Double Chance Betting
Pros:
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Increased chance of winning: Covers two outcomes, so lower risk.
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Good for uncertain matches: When you think a team won’t lose but can’t predict a win or draw.
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Lower variance: Helps preserve your bankroll by reducing losses.
Cons:
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Lower odds: Safer bets pay less, so your potential profit is smaller.
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Not suitable for big payouts: If you want big wins, double chance limits your returns.
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Can be tempting to rely on safety: May reduce excitement or lead to over-betting on “safe” options.
When is it Best to Consider Double Chance?
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When you want to reduce risk but still be involved in the betting.
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In matches where one team is strong but a draw is possible.
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When the odds for a single outcome seem too risky.
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For beginners who want safer bets while learning.
Summary for Beginners and Experienced Bettors
Double chance betting is a smart way to increase your chances of winning by covering two possible outcomes in a sports match. It’s safer than regular bets but offers smaller returns. Bookmakers adjust the odds accordingly, reflecting the higher probability of winning. While most common in football, it can be found in other sports and markets too. Use it strategically when you want to reduce risk without eliminating the chance to win.