Why Long Multiples Appeal to South African Bettors

A South African Betting Scenario 

Consider this midweek slip of Champions League action. It would be typical of a South African punter, especially given the affinity to European action. 

A South African Betting Scenario 

There is nothing crazy in terms of individual selections with mega odds prices, and yet the combined total is 26/1. Of course, each leg has a degree of uncertainty attached to it, which could collapse the entire slip, but that is simply par for the course. 
Here, the bettor experiences either a full win or a complete loss—there is no partial return in standard multiples.

The Role of Perceived Value 

It is important to remember the difference between perceived value and actual probability, though. 

• Perceived value: “These outcomes are likely, so combining them makes sense.” 
• Actual probability: “The chance of all outcomes happening together is low.”

This difference does provide reasoning for why multiples feel logical but have the inherent risk of underperforming. There is no use in ignoring this. 

Analytical Takeaway

Long slip multi-bets are bread and butter betting for South African punters. Small stakes, familiar sports and teams, and the possibility of high potential returns all make for an enthralling encounter. 
Analytically, though, the more selections added take away from the probability and the likelihood of success is almost depleted.