Radamel Falcao may still play in the World Cup after all.

The Monaco forward's recovery from his recent surgery is going according to schedule and he now has a "55 percent chance of playing in the World Cup," according to Dr. Jose Carlos Noronha.

"Radamel Falcao has successfully completed the first phase of his recovery further to the operation on his left knee," Monaco said a press release,ESPN reported. "AS Monaco FC and the player would like to thank all the people who took care of Falcao in Porto, in particular the medical department of Doctor Jose Carlos Noronha and the FC Porto club.

"Radamel Falcao is going to pursue from this Thursday the second phase of his recovery in the sport clinic in Madrid, in close collaboration with the medical department of AS Monaco FC.''

The 28-year-old Colombian is one of the top players in the world and was a major part of Colombia's qualifying campaign. For many, Falcao may never have another chance to play in the World Cup; in 2018 he will be on the wrong side of 30 and may no longer possess the strength that has made him such a versatile forward. Moreover, Colombia, which is competing in its first World Cup since 1998, may find it more difficult to qualify for the next tournament. The team finished second in the CONMEBOL standings but benefitted from not having to compete against Brazil and being able to get hot at the right time.

In four years, Brazil will be competing for a spot in Russia as will Argentina, Uruguay, an improved Chile, Ecuador, and Venezuela; the latter side was terrific in this year's qualifying round despite ultimately falling short.