Emperor's Cup holders Gamba Osaka set off on their quest for an unprecedented third consecutive title with a 6-2 second-round victory over Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences on Sunday evening.
Forward Cho Jae Jin scored twice during Gamba's five-goal explosion in the second half at Expo Stadium as Akira Nishino's side set up a third-round date with J. League second division side Tochigi SC next month.
"I'm satisfied with the result," Nishino said. "We can build on this performance tonight in the next round."
Hayato Sasaki, Shoki Hirai, Dodo and Takumi Shimohira chipped in with a goal each for Gamba on a night when all 18 J. League first division sides advanced — except Vegalta Sendai.
Vegalta became the first casualty from the top flight in a derby match against Sony Sendai FC, losing 1-0 to the Japan Football League club after extra time.
Also among the 32 matches held nationwide, J1 leaders Nagoya Grampus, who lost 4-1 to Gamba in the final on New Year's Day, swept past Chukyo University 3-0.