The World Cup dreams of 16 nations will begin to die this week in South Africa. Today is critical for three teams—Germany, England, and the U.S.—expected to move on to the knockout round. Only a handful of venues citywide are showing these matches live; see our full list of World Cup viewing spots for details. For nearly 16 years, The Baltic Room has cultivated a reputation as Capitol Hill’s premier DJ and dance club, but owner Jason Brotman is stepping up for the World Cup. He’s brought in a second big-screen projection TV and is opening the place early (7 a.m.; as early as 4 a.m. for some matches through June 21). The breakfast menu features coffee and Macrina pastries; don’t forget, bars can start serving again at 6 a.m., meaning Bloody Marys and mimosas. This morning, the real early risers for the 4:30 a.m. kickoff will see Serbia, shocked in its opening match by Ghana’s late penalty kick and in need of at least a point, against a suddenly resurgent Germany (not a good thing, historically), which missed injured captain Michael Ballack not at all in a methodical 4-0 demolition of Australia (new team slogan: “We’re in trouble, mate!”) At 7 a.m., it’s the main event in Group C, the U.S. vs. underrated Slovenia, the surprise leader after England and the U.S. drew 1-1. And at 11:30, England-Algeria takes on an added urgency. The group favorites could use a victory; the North Africans must take away a point or face the abyss. (21 and over) MICHAEL MAHONEY

Fri., June 18, 4:30, 7 & 11:30 a.m., 2010