The Gulf Cup is due to begin tomorrow in Kuwait ©Gulf Cup

New hosts Kuwait will open the Gulf Cup of Nations with a match against Saudi Arabia tomorrow at the Jaber International Stadium.

It was only announced earlier this month that Kuwait would replace Qatar as host to end a period of lengthy political wrangling.

The tournament was initially due to be held in the 2022 World Cup host nation but was switched to ensure the participation of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

All three nations had withdrawn after "severing tie" with Qatar following accusations that the nation is supporting terrorism, accusations which they have denied.

Kuwait was scheduled to stage the event in 2016 but it was postponed as a result of a suspension from FIFA imposed due to Government interference in sport.

This suspension was suddenly lifted after an unannounced visit from FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid lobbying by Government representatives from Qatar.

The Gulf Cup was originally due to take place in Qatar before being switched at short notice ©Getty Images
The Gulf Cup was originally due to take place in Qatar before being switched at short notice ©Getty Images

Kuwait was then confirmed as replacement Gulf Cup host the following day.

Oman and the United Arab Emirates will clash in the second match of the day tomorrow at the same venue.

The four team playing tomorrow are all in Group A of the eight team event.

Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq and Yemen make up Group B.

The final is due to be played at Jaber International Stadium on January 5.

Qatar won the last edition of the event in 2014.