But, if i remember correctly, you should be able to get inbound connections while syncing... Not 100% sure tough, but if memory serves me correct, it should.
What you could potentially do is telnet to port 8333 from either your node or another pc in your network.
IF you see an output like the following, you're listening on port 8333
telnet localhost 8333
Trying ::1...
Trying 127.0.0.1...
Connected to localhost.
Escape character is '^]'.
Now, do the same from OUTSIDE your LAN... Use a telnet app on your phone while connected to 3G/4G/5G (not your wifi) and try to telnet to port 8333 on your WAN ip. You can find your WAN ip by surfing to a site like https://whatismyipaddress.com/ (no affiliation) from a device connected to your wifi (or physically connected with an utp cable...