The boys in blue are back.
After failing to qualify for the World Cup in 2018, the U.S. Men’s Soccer Team will make their triumphant return to the world stage next week with their match against Wales on Monday. And while Cleveland doesn’t have a major professional soccer team, that doesn’t diminish the city’s love for the world’s game.
This year’s tournament isn’t for the faint of heart, however, as it’ll feature plenty of early starts thanks to the eight-hour time difference between host nation Qatar and Cleveland. Thanks to that time difference, most Group Stage matches will mostly start at 5 a.m., 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
While those early starts may wreck havoc on our sleep schedules, some Cleveland-area bars are adapting their schedule to accommodate the biggest sporting event on the planet. Here are four area bars where you can wake up with the World Cup.
Old Angle Tavern
This Ohio City pub will be open for every game that starts after 8 a.m., along with an earlier opening for select 5 a.m. matches. A full schedule of match-specific openings can be found on the bar’s Facebook page. 848 West 25th St., Cleveland, 216-861-5643, facebook.com/OldAngleSoccer
Parnell's Pub
One of the premier Irish pubs in Cleveland, Parnell’s main Cleveland Heights location will open at 11 a.m. on Sunday and 8 a.m. on Monday for the first two days of games before opening at either 10 or 11 a.m. the rest of the tournament. The downtown location will open early for select games, like when the U.S. takes on England on Black Friday. 12425 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-862-8953; 1415 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-862-8953, parnells.pub
Merry Arts Pub & Grille
As the main bar for Arsenal FC supporters in Cleveland, Merry Arts is no stranger to opening early for soccer. That trend will continue for the World Cup, as the spot will open for every match. 15607 1/2 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, 216-226-4080.
Der Braumeister
This year’s World Cup schedule works out perfectly for Der Braumister, as the iconic Cleveland venue combines its annual 12 Beers of Christmas event with the World Cup. On Nov. 23, Der Braumister is opening at 8 a.m. for Germany’s Group Stage match against Japan before closing and reopening at 3 p.m. for the untapping of their Christmas Beers. Four days later, the venue is breaking its age-old tradition of being closed on Sundays for a four-course beer brunch from noon to 2 p.m. prior to showing Germany’s match against Spain at 2 p.m. 13046 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-671-6220, derbrau.com
Iggy's Bar
This upscale Lakewood dive wakes up early all year long for F1 and English Premier League action, as a home for Liverpool FC fans. Now, the bar with a great craft beer lineup, multiple pool tables and multiple TVs, including a big screen projector, is your home for the World Cup games. Join other American Outlaws who gather here for Team USA games. 13405 Madison Ave., Lakewood, instagram.com/iggysbar
Looking for more watering holes? Check out our guide to Cleveland's 50 Best Bars.
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