Multi-bets, or combo bets, are one of the most popular betting methods in sports betting. This is because combining several events allows you to aim for a bigger win with a relatively small stake.
However, multi-bets also carry risks that beginners often underestimate. In this article, we will take a closer look at how multi-bets work, what mistakes to avoid, and how to build smarter combinations.
What is a multi-bet?
A multi-bet combines two or more predictions into one bet. All selections must be correct for the bet to win.
For example:
- Arsenal to beat Manchester United (1.80)
- Barcelona to beat Sevilla (1.60)
- Jannik Sinner to win his tennis match (1.40)
See exact odds on OlyBet. In this case, the odds are multiplied together 1.80 × 1.60 × 1.40 = 4.03 and if you bet €10, the possible payout would be €40.30.
However, if even one selection turns out to be wrong, the entire multibet loses.
Why are multiple bets so popular?
The main advantage of multibets is the higher potential payout. For example, the odds of individual bets on three favorites may be relatively modest. However, if these selections are combined into one multibet, the odds of the entire bet increase significantly.
That is why combo bets are often used:
- In football
- In basketball
- In tennis
- In ice hockey
- Combining several sports
How many selections to include in a multiple bet?
One of the most common mistakes for novice bettors is making multiple bets that are too large.
At first glance, bets with 10 or even 15 events may seem tempting, but in practice their chances of winning become significantly smaller.
That is why experienced bettors prefer:
- Multiple bets with 3–4 selections
- Combo bets with 5–6 selections
- Smaller but more realistic combinations
Sometimes combining three well-analyzed selections can make a lot more sense than adding ten favorites to the same bet.
How to find value in a multiple bet?
A successful multiple bet is not just about collecting favorites. A smarter approach is to look for odds that may actually be higher than the bookmaker’s estimate suggests.
Read also: How do odds work?
For example, it is worth paying attention to:
- Team form
- Injuries and lineups
- Motivation
- Home and away statistics
- Head-to-head matches
The more background work you do, the easier it is to find selections that may have value.
Common Mistakes When Placing Multiple Bets
Too Many Choices
The most common mistake is trying to win as much as possible with a single bet. While the total odds may look tempting, the odds of winning your bet decrease with each additional event.
Only choosing favorites
Many people assume that favorites always win. However, surprises happen regularly in sports, and even the strongest teams or athletes do not win every match.
Being driven by emotions
Adding a favorite club or favorite player to a bet without thorough analysis can lead to unnecessary risk.
Chasing odds
A very high total odds do not automatically mean a good bet. It is more important to assess the actual probability of winning each selection.
What is Combo King?
For fans of multiple bets, OlyBet also offers the Combo King offer, which allows you to increase the payout of a winning combo bet with an additional bonus under certain conditions.
Combo King is automatically applied to a qualifying bet. To activate it, there must be at least five selections in the multiple bet and the odds of each selection must be at least 1.30.
The more selections a winning bet contains, the bigger the bonus can be. For example, a multiple bet with five selections can earn a 4% bonus, while a winning bet with at least 30 selections can earn a bonus of up to 125%!
What is Bet Builder?
Fans of multiple bets will also be interested in the Bet Builder feature. It allows you to create a personalized multiple bet by combining different markets and statistical indicators in one bet. For example, you can add the winner of the match, the total number of goals or individual player statistics to the same coupon.
This flexibility allows you to create a bet according to your vision and game analysis.
OlyBet also offers its customers a Bet Builder challenge, where a winning Bet Builder bet can bring you up to €100 in FreeBets.
Is a multiple bet suitable for live betting?
Yes. Many bettors also create multiple bets during live betting. This allows you to follow the progress of the games and make decisions based on the latest information.
However, when betting on live multiples, it is worth paying attention to:
- Rapidly changing odds
- Injuries and dismissals
- Pace of play
- Statistics
Quick decisions should never replace thorough analysis.
Which markets are suitable for multiples?
Most commonly used:
- Winner of the match (1X2)
- Both teams to score (BTTS)
- Over/Under Goal
- Double Chance
- Tennis Match Winner
- Basketball Total Score
It is generally worth combining markets that you know well and have done enough background work on.
Read also: How to bet on tennis?
How to bet responsibly
- Don’t bet when you’re emotional
- Set a specific budget for yourself
- Avoid making up for losses with new bets
- Analyze each selection separately
- Don’t add bets just for the sake of higher odds
- Enjoy sports and bet responsibly
- Use our sports betting app to keep your bets under full control
A multiple bet can make watching sports even more exciting, but to be successful, it’s worth focusing on quality, not quantity.
When getting to know sports betting, it’s also worth keeping an eye on the OlyBoost page, where we bring you the most special bets that you simply don’t want to miss.
Multibets FAQ
What is a multibet?
A multiple bet combines two or more selections into one bet. All selections must be correct to win.
How many selections should you include in a multiple bet?
There is no set rule, but generally, combinations of 3-5 selections are more realistic than very large multibets.
Does one incorrect selection ruin the entire multiple bet?
Yes. In a standard multibet, every event added to the bet must be completed to win.
Is a multiple bet suitable for beginners?
Yes, but beginners should start with smaller combinations and avoid bets with too high total odds.
What is the difference between a multibet and a single bet?
A single bet contains only one selection, while a multiple bet combines several different selections into one bet.
Can different sports be combined in a multiple bet?
Yes. In a multiple bet, you can combine different sports, such as football, basketball and tennis.
