What's happening?

No one could quite believe what they were seeing. ArgentinaThe second-largest country in South America. It has a population of nearly 46 million. , the great footballing nation, unbeaten for 36 matches, was in trouble. Their opponents? Saudi ArabiaThe second-largest country in the Arab world, with a population of nearly 35 million. , who nobody thought could possibly win. 

Saudi Arabia's 2 - 1 win over Argentina in the group stages of the World Cup this week shocked the world. Saudi fans were so excited that the nation announced that 23 November would be a public holidayA nationally recognised when people do not have to go to school or work. . 

But perhaps the win should not be surprising. Saudi Arabia has spent a lot of money on global sports recently. Last year, the country bought Newcastle United football team. It wants to make a name for itself on the world stage.

But Saudi Arabia also faces a lot of bad press in many countries. It is accused of abusing human rights and is involved in a war in YemenThe poorest country in the Gulf region is in the midst of a humanitarian crisis. .

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Others say it is unfair to focus on criticism of Saudi Arabia. Many other nations have shameful events in both their past and present. 

Is it time to embrace Saudi Arabia?

Yes! Saudi Arabia is developing rapidly. Everyone would win if global powers form a good relationship with Saudi Arabia. 

No! We cannot ignore reports of human rights abuses. It would be wrong to make ties with countries that do not always respect human rights.