[1] Gamba Osaka were exempt from competing in the group stage, due to their entry into the Asian Champions League.
The final was on November 3 at the Tokyo National Stadium.
The winners were JEF United Ichihara Chiba, beating Kashima Antlers in the final 2-0 to claim its second J.League Cup.
Kawasaki Frontale advances to the semi-finals on Away goals rule.
Kashima Antlers advances to the finals on Away goals rule.