"The result at Anfield was huge, but as you go further through the rounds it gets more important because you're closer to the end, " he said.

BBC: Reading captain Matt Mills thrilled with 'dream' win

The process can easily go to multiple rounds with the same people theoretically getting the same number of votes each time as cardinals play chicken to see who gets dropped first, Bruter says.

NPR: Arcane Process Encourages Papal Horse Trading

Mr. Sarkozy, who has vowed to leave politics if he doesn't get a second mandate, will look to dent Mr. Hollande's lead in a televised debate Wednesday, the only occasion for voters to watch the two candidates go head to head between the two rounds.

WSJ: French Presidential Campaign Intensifies