Neglecting Salah in congregation

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Q 1: I am an eighteen-year-old man. Praise be to Allah, I am sticking to the principles of my religion and to performing the duties of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) - indeed, Allah is the One Who accepts deeds and forgives sins. However, I am sometimes unaware of the Salah (Prayer) time approaching, being occupied with activities such as playing football or the like. I offer Salah once I become aware of its time. I hardly catch the time of Salah which causes me to have doubts about its validity. Inform me, may Allah reward you well! Is my performance of Salah valid? Am I neglectful that I am liable to offer a Kaffarah (expiation) for being so?

A: You must be punctual in performing the five obligatory daily Salahs and Friday Salah at the times that they are due in congregation. Moreover, you must not be occupied with activities that may prevent you from performing them when they are due in congregation. However, as to your previous performance of Salah, we hope that they will be accepted by Allah. You are to repent and ask Allah's forgiveness for your neglectfulness. Furthermore, you should be determined not to do this again. (Part No. 7; Page No. 294) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.