The ruling on a latecomer following another latecomer

Question:
He says: We entered the mosque as latecomers, and after the imam finished his prayer, we stood up to complete our prayer. The person who entered with me followed us. Is his action valid?

Answer:
There is no harm; it is valid, if Allah wills. However, it would be better if each person made up his prayer on his own, as there is no need for an imam. If each person made up his prayer for himself, that would suffice. This is because when the Companions prayed behind 'Abd al-Rahman ibn 'Awf during the expedition to Tabuk, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was delayed in some days from the Fajr prayer, so the Companions appointed 'Abd al-Rahman ibn 'Awf (may Allah be pleased with him) to lead them in the Fajr prayer. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) arrived while 'Abd al-Rahman was in the second rak'ah. He wanted to step back, but the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) gestured to him to stay. So 'Abd al-Rahman completed the prayer with them, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) prayed the second rak'ah with him and al-Mughirah ibn Shu'bah (may Allah be pleased with him) . When 'Abd al-Rahman finished his prayer, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) stood up and made up his prayer, and al-Mughirah did the same. Each person made up his prayer for himself; al-Mughirah did not follow the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), but each person made up his prayer for himself. This is the best course, following the example of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). However, if one of the latecomers follows his companion, or if a group follows one of them, there is no harm, if Allah wills. Yes.

The presenter: May Allah reward you with good.