This type of wager allows players to combine several predictions on different sporting events into one bet and increase the final odds. However, it carries additional and high risks. Below, let’s break down how an accumulator bet works.
What is an acca bet? It is a format of betting where a player simultaneously makes several predictions on different events. All predictions are combined into one wager, and for a win, all events in the list must be successful. The concept of accumulator can be explained using a train analogy: if one car derails (an event doesn’t happen), the entire train derails (the bet loses). This scheme allows players to increase the potential winnings since the odds of all predictions in the betting slip are multiplied together.
Example of an accumulator bet
As an example, let’s take three predictions on matches from the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League:
- Victory of the Arsenal team in the match against Porto with odds of 1.75
- Victory of PSG in the game against Real Sociedad with odds of 1.50
- Victory of Manchester City over Copenhagen with odds of 1.20
If you compile an accumulator from these outcomes and all predictions come true, your winnings will be equal to the product of all three odds: 1.75 * 1.50 * 1.20 = 3.15. That is, with a stake amount of $100, the payout will be $315. The likelihood of this outcome is around 32%, but each individual odds has a margin, which is also multiplied in this case. From the perspective of our experts, the actual probability of winning is approximately 20-23%. Consequently, the possibility of losing also increases significantly — it will be around 77%.
Characteristics
Accumulators have the following characteristic features that should be taken into account when using them:
- Combining multiple events. Accumulator allows combining several predictions on different matches into one stakw.
- Increased potential winnings. Due to the multiplication of the odds of each prediction, significantly larger winnings are possible compared to singles.
- Increased risk. All predictions must be correct. Even one incorrect choice will lead to the loss of the entire wager.
- Flexibility in choosing outcomes. Players have the option to include matches from different leagues, tournaments, and countries in one coupon, expanding the choice of possible outcomes.
- Analysis and forecasting. Thorough analysis of each match and well-founded predictions considering the probability of each outcome are necessary.
Tips for usage
- Carefully analyse each prediction before including it in the betting slip. Study the current condition of the teams, players’ form, variability, and possible tactics of the coaches. Pay attention to recent events within the team — injuries, scandals, coach changes, etc. This can significantly affect the team’s condition in upcoming matches.
- Remember to consider the probability of each outcome and the risks associated with each match. Football matches can be very unpredictable and difficult to predict; all possible factors should be taken into account.
- Set reasonable amounts to minimise potential losses. Don’t bet your entire salary, as with the increase in the final odds, the risks also increase.
- Don’t see accumulators as a way to make instant money. It is primarily entertainment and gambling. Luck of the player comes to the forefront in combined bets, rather than their knowledge. Remember that there’s a margin embedded in the odds — the bookmaker’s commission. Thus, the actual chances of all events in the bet slip winning are even lower.
Pros and cons of accumulators
- High odds
- Possibility of a large win
- Excitement
- Lower probability of winning
- Increased hidden margin of the bookmaker
- Difficulty in analysing a large number of matches
- Loss of the entire bet if one event doesn’t win
- Frequent restrictions from the bookmaker (winning limits, odds limitations, etc.)
This type of wager attracts players with the opportunity to win a large amount of money at once, while spending only a small amount. However, the chances of ultimate victory rapidly diminish with each new prediction. Also, witnessing the gradual success of events in your coupon is an extremely thrilling activity. If you lack such excitement in your life, you can try your luck for a relatively low price.
Accumulators have little in common with a serious approach to match analysis, so professional forecasters rarely use this strategy. If your goal is to achieve positive results in the long run, consider singles. By betting on one event, you can rely on your knowledge more and rely less on luck.