Whether you’re a seasoned sports expert or just looking to add some extra excitement to a match, there are countless ways to place a bet. Two of the most commonly used forms are single bets and combo bets. Both offer unique advantages and challenges. In this article, we explain the differences, provide practical tips, and help you determine which strategy suits your playing style best.
What are Single Bets?
A single bet is the simplest and most straightforward type of sports wager. You place a bet on one outcome of one event. For example: “Ajax to beat Feyenoord.” If Ajax wins, you win the bet. If not, you lose your stake.
This betting style is ideal for beginners, as you only need to analyze one match. The chance of winning is relatively high compared to other types of bets, since you only need one correct prediction. You can also manage your losses better, as you’re less dependent on multiple factors.
Advantages of Single Bets:
- Simple and easy to understand
- Lower risk per bet
- Better for bankroll management
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced players
Disadvantages:
- Potential winnings are usually lower
- Less thrilling if you enjoy high payouts
What are Combo Bets?
A combo bet (also called an accumulator or parlay) combines multiple bets into one larger wager. All predictions must be correct to win. For example: you bet that PSV wins, Barcelona scores over 2.5 goals, and Manchester City draws. If even one of these predictions is wrong, you lose the entire bet.
While that sounds risky, combo bets are attractive because of their significantly higher odds. Since the odds of each selection are multiplied together, a relatively small stake can result in a large payout.
Advantages of Combo Bets:
- Potentially much higher payouts
- More excitement and suspense
- Appealing for strategic players with strong analysis skills
Disadvantages:
- One mistake means losing the entire bet
- Harder to analyze (more factors involved)
- Statistically lower chance of winning
Why Combo Bets Are Becoming More Popular
With the rise of online sports betting, the threshold for placing combo bets has been significantly lowered. Platforms like Magic Betting make it easy to combine multiple bets and immediately see your potential winnings. For many players, it’s also a way to get the most out of a matchday by combining different favorites into one exciting bet.
You can also use “bet builders” nowadays, allowing you to combine multiple markets within a single match—for example: “Liverpool wins, Mohamed Salah scores, and over 2.5 total goals.” This makes betting even more dynamic and personalized. You can find more information about that on our blog.
Strategic Tips for Successful Combo Betting
Thinking of using combo bets? Follow these tips to improve your chances:
- Choose Likely Outcomes
It’s tempting to bet on surprises, but when combining multiple predictions, it’s better to limit risks. Go for outcomes you believe are very likely—such as a clear favorite winning or an “over 1.5 goals” bet in a match between two attacking teams. - Limit the Number of Selections
The more selections you combine, the harder it becomes to predict them all correctly. Try to keep your combo bets to 2 to 4 selections. This keeps the odds realistic while still offering a nice potential payout. - Use Different Bet Types
Mix up your markets: besides “team to win,” you can also bet on things like “both teams to score,” “total number of goals,” “handicaps,” or “goalscorer.” This gives you more flexibility when building your combo. - Do Your Homework
Analyze team form, injuries, head-to-head results, and match schedules. A team playing three games in eight days might be more fatigued than a well-rested side. These details can make all the difference. - Be Patient and Realistic
Combo bets are not a get-rich-quick strategy. Consider them as a way to occasionally earn a little extra, not a reliable income source. Patience and discipline are key. Losing is part of the game—don’t let it discourage you.
Magic Betting Live
Want to learn more about sports betting or just want to give it a try? Check out the Magic Betting App or visit www.magicbetting.be for the best online sports bets. Be sure to check out the various promo offers as well. Take your shot and win!