The draw for the fourth round of the 96th Emperor’s Cup took place at JFA House on Tuesday, with the 16 remaining clubs learning their path to the January 1 final at Suita Stadium in Osaka.

Defending champions Gamba Osaka will set off for a third straight title when they face Shimizu S-Pulse.

Meanwhile, Urawa Reds and Kawasaki Frontale will meet in a potential preview of the MEIJI YASUDA J.League Championship. JFL representatives Honda FC were matched with FC Tokyo.

The eight matches will take place on November 9 and 12, with venues and kickoff times to be announced at a later date.

Matchups for 96th Emperor’s Cup:

Yokohama F. Marinos vs. Albirex Niigata
Gamba Osaka vs. Shimizu S-Pulse
Kashima Antlers vs. Vissel Kobe
Sagan Tosu vs. Sanfrecce Hiroshima
Omiya Ardija vs. Yokohama FC
Kashiwa Reysol vs. Shonan Bellmare
FC Tokyo vs. Honda FC
Kawasaki Frontale vs. Urawa Reds