Quick answer
Point spread: A point spread is a handicap applied to the favourite (or a head start for the underdog) so that both sides of the bet are priced closer to even.
Also called: spread betting line, Asian handicap
Explained, with an example
Example: Team A −3.5 means Team A must win by 4 or more for that side to win; Team B +3.5 wins if B loses by 3 or fewer or wins outright. Football's Asian handicap works the same way and can use quarter lines that split stakes [1]. In Odds-API.io data the market is called Spread and the line is in hdp [2].
Try it: tools and tutorials
Frequently asked questions
What is a point spread?
A point spread is a handicap applied to the favourite (or a head start for the underdog) so that both sides of the bet are priced closer to even.
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Author: Ken Lin · Corrections: if you spot an error, we review it and date-stamp the fix.
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Sources
- What Is an Asian Handicap? — Odds-API.io glossary, accessed 2 Nov 2026
- Arbitrage Bets guide (formula, response format, limitations) — Odds-API.io docs, accessed 2 Nov 2026