Olympic Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is expected to reduce his initial squad as Nigeria step up preparations for their upcoming U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie against the Democratic Republic of Congo, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

Chelle initially invited 31 players from Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs for the opening phase of the training camp, allowing the domestic-based youngsters to stake their claims for places in the final squad.

The players had their first major test in a friendly against Nigeria National League (NNL) side Remo Stars on Saturday, with both teams settling for a goalless draw.

Following the assessment, the Franco-Malian coach is understood to have identified the players he intends to retain, with some members of the initial selection expected to leave camp.

Those who make the cut will be joined by foreign-based professionals expected to report later this week as the technical crew works towards completing its squad for the two-legged encounter.

Several of the overseas-based invitees were part of the Super Eagles squad that featured in Nigeria's 3-3 international friendly draw against Russia.

Their arrival is expected after they complete their respective club commitments in Europe, allowing Chelle to assess the combined group before the qualifiers.

The coach will be looking to blend the experience of the foreign-based players with the domestic talents retained from the initial selection as Nigeria seek to advance to the next stage of the qualifying campaign.

The two-legged contest against DR Congo represents an important test for the Olympic Eagles, who must secure progress if they are to keep their hopes of reaching the U-23 AFCON alive.