Removing the Draw Risk

Football is the only major sport where draws happen regularly — about 25–30% of Premier League matches end level. Double chance removes that outcome from your bet by covering two of the three possible results. It costs you lower odds, but it also removes the variance of the draw, which matters most in tight matches where a single event can decide the outcome.

This guide explains when double chance is genuinely worth using, and when the draw-no-bet or Asian handicap alternative is the smarter bet.

How Double Chance Works

Three options, each covering two outcomes:

BetCovered outcomesYou lose only if...
1XHome win + drawAway team wins
X2Draw + away winHome team wins
12Home win + away winMatch ends in a draw

When Double Chance Makes Sense

Three genuine uses: backing the underdog at X2 when your analysis says they won't lose but you're not confident enough for an outright away win — this is the most common and most profitable use. Backing a strong home team at 1X in a tight match — great for accumulator legs where a draw would break the bet. 12 is rarer but useful when you're confident there will be a winner but don't know which one.

Animated graphic showing double chance bet covering home win and draw
1X covers home and draw, X2 covers draw and away — pick the one that matches your view. — Photo credit: PagBets.org

Double Chance vs Draw-No-Bet: Which Is Better?

Both protect against the draw, but differently: double chance covers two outcomes in one bet at reduced odds, while draw-no-bet refunds the stake on a draw and pays on a win. Draw-no-bet usually carries a lower margin, making it the smarter default when you have a clear favourite. Double chance wins when you genuinely believe either outcome is plausible and want coverage on both.

Animated graphic showing a football match ending in a draw while a 1X bet wins
The draw lands — and your 1X bet pays out while straight home-win backers lose. — Photo credit: PagBets.org

Using Double Chance in Accumulators

Double chance is popular in accumulators because the short odds (1.30–1.60) look safe for adding legs. The real risk is the margin multiplied across legs — a 1X at 1.30 with a 4% margin is still a 4% edge cost per leg. Use double chance in accas only when your analysis genuinely covers both outcomes, not just to inflate leg count.

Our accumulator guide explains the full maths of leg selection and margin management.

The Complete Football Betting Toolkit

Double chance is one tool in a broader toolbox: use odds to compare value, Asian handicaps to reduce margins further, football strategies to research properly, and bankroll rules to manage risk. The best football bettors use whichever tool the specific match calls for, not a default approach.

Gambling involves risk — 18+, set deposit limits, and use the tools in our responsible gambling guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 1X mean in double chance betting?
1X means the home team wins OR the match ends in a draw. You win the bet unless the away team wins outright. It covers two of the three possible outcomes.
What does X2 mean in double chance?
X2 means the match draws OR the away team wins. You lose only if the home team wins. It's useful when you believe the underdog won't lose but aren't confident enough to bet an outright away win.
Is double chance better than draw-no-bet?
It depends on the price. Draw-no-bet refunds your stake if the match draws (you only bet on a team to win). Double chance covers both outcomes in one bet. Draw-no-bet usually carries a lower margin. Compare both prices before choosing — see our odds guide.
When should I use double chance?
Use double chance when your analysis says a team won't lose but you're uncertain about a win — backing a strong home team at 1X against a dangerous visitor, or backing an improving underdog at X2 when you expect them to keep it close.
What are the odds for double chance?
Double chance odds are always lower than the single outcome because you cover two results. Typical football 1X odds run 1.20–1.60, X2 runs 1.40–2.00, and 12 runs 1.15–1.40 depending on the favourite's strength.