The Japan Football Association has finalised the schedule for the 98th Emperor’s Cup, which will take place from May 26 through December 24 of next year.

The knockout tournament will feature 88 participants including 18 J1 League teams, 22 J2 League teams.

The winner of the National University Football Championship, and 47 prefectural tournament winners, will also feature.

The final, which will again take place at Saitama Stadium, will be held over a week earlier than the traditional New Year’s Day to accommodate Japan’s participation in the AFC Asian Cup 2019 UAE.

98th Emperor’s Cup (2018) Match Schedule

Round 1: May 26th (Sat), May 27th (Sun) [University Champions, Prefectural Champions]

Round 2: June 6 (Wed) [J.League Clubs]

Round 3: July 11 (Wed)

Round of 16: August 22 (Wed)

Quarterfinal: October 24 (Wed)

Semifinal: December 16 (Sun)

Final: December 24 (Mon, Holiday) at Saitama Stadium 2002