The Bhoys started the game brightly and took the lead in the 11th minute through Callum McGregor at Hampden.
Celtic did not double their advantage until after the break, but the interim included a significant period during which the Parkhead side were reduced to 10 men by Dembele's enforced absence.
"The first half in particular we were outstanding".
RYAN CHRISTIE has admitted he has selfish concerns as well as wanting Celtic to reach the Scottish Cup Final.
And Griffiths had an impact as he was wiped out by a sliding James Tavernier in the penalty area, affording Sinclair the chance from 12 yards, which he took confidently.
Foderingham almost made amends as he palmed Sinclair's spot-kick on to the inside of the post but the ball bounced over the line to double Celtic's advantage.
Rangers had conceded just once in their previous five games, but with Celtic enjoying the lion's share of possession a goal seemed inevitable and it duly came through McGregor.
Those of an optimistic bent among the Ibrox faithful might eke a little consolation from the late flurry, in which Rangers summoned four decent efforts to make Gordon work a little for his wage.
Caixinha did not alter his plan after being told his players were anxious.
NKorea detains US citizen, the 3rd American being held there
The reported arrest comes as tensions rise between North Korea and the USA over North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes. Last year, both were sentenced to multiple years of hard labor for what Pyongyang calls subversive acts against North Korea.
With the possible exception of Kenny Miller, the brutal answer is that none possess the necessary quality.
"I thought we played absolutely brilliant in the game".
"It's great pace from Leigh Griffiths for the second goal as well - great ball down the line from Patrick Roberts, wee touch, we got a penalty". If we turn up on the day you know what can happen.
We could have scored two or three but, I've got to be honest, the fans and the players gave everything today and we deserve to be in the final.
"That's the team belief and the winning mentality the manager has instilled".
This afternoon's game was expected to be a tight encounter following the 1-1 draw at Celtic Park last month, but in truth the Light Blues will be disappointed with their overall performance on this occasion as they failed to trouble Craig Gordon or put any kind of sustained pressure on the defenders in front of him until the latter stages.
"It goes right through the squad and it's great to be a part of it".
"Not that they arrived down there (at our goal) with too many clear chances but especially because they control and manage all the game in the way they want it".
Comments